Tips & Tricks for Problem Mares

A complete and through reproductive examination including a history of the breeding techniques used and stallion fertility is vital to identify the potential cause of subfertility.
Infectious and inflammatory endometritis is a leading cause of infertility in the mare. Mares susceptible to post mating induced endometritis have been shown to have an imbalance of pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines, compared to resistant mares. While suitable intra-uterine and systemic antibiotics are the most effective treatment against infectious endometritis, treatment alone may be insufficient to eliminate bacteria from the uterus. Suggested presence of biofilms, dormant bacteria and mucous, may prevent antibiotics from reaching their target and effectively eliminating bacteria.
Practicing appropriate breeding techniques, including ovulation induction and appropriate timing of insemination/breeding relative to ovulation and providing post-breeding treatments can significantly improve fertility in problem mares.

• Understand the importance of acutely diagnosing and modulating the immune response of mares susceptible to post-mating induced endometritis
• Know why conventional antimicrobial therapy may fail in cases of infectious endometritis and the importance of treating latent infections, mucous and biofilms
• Understand the importance of correcting any anatomical defects to ensure fully functional barriers to protect the uterine environment.
• Know how to perform ovulation induction and appropriate breeding management to optimise a mares chances of conception