Representações sociais sobre maternidade na reprodução humana assistida: discursos de mulheres inférteis / Social representations of motherhood in assisted human reproduction: discourses of infertile women / Representaciones sociales de la maternidad en la reproducción humana asistida: relatos de mujeres infértiles

Este trabalho tem o objetivo de analisar as concepções de maternidade para mulheres inférteis de diferentes níveis socioeconômicos que estão em tratamento de reprodução assistida. Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo, descritivo, que utilizou como instrumento uma entrevista semiestruturada e contemplou temas como o significado de família, desejo/expectativas sobre filho e gestação e expectativas sobre a maternidade. Participaram da pesquisa 48 mulheres inférteis acima de 35 anos que usam tecnologias de reprodução assistida de alta complexidade em instituições privada e pública. Os dados foram tratados pela análise de conteúdo em que emergiram os temas: representações sociais da família; representações sociais da maternidade; expectativas com a gestação e os modelos maternos; e o filho imaginado. As participantes representaram a família de forma positiva, como um sistema de suporte, de fundação e origem de amor, configurando-a como um laço social. Por outro lado, as concepções de família com base na consanguinidade também estiveram presentes, representando a família pela perpetuação da espécie e pela importância do laço biológico. A maternidade foi marcada por significativa idealização, sendo vista como um papel gratificante e de realização da feminilidade. O peso da cobrança social para procriar também foi sentido como um dever a cumprir e que, na impossibilidade de se realizar, gera sentimentos de inferioridade, menos-valia, impotência e inadequação perante a sociedade, o que reforça o estigma da infertilidade. Tais resultados apontam a importância de reflexões sobre o papel da mulher na nossa cultura, visto que a maternidade é ainda utilizada como medida para o sucesso ou fracasso feminino. Faz-se necessário também refletir sobre a possibilidade da maior inserção do trabalho psicológico na reprodução assistida, visto a carga emocional e social envolvidas nesse processo.(AU)

This study aimed to analyze the conceptions of motherhood for infertile women from different socioeconomic levels who are undergoing assisted reproduction treatment. This is a qualitative and descriptive study that used a semi-structured interview as an instrument and included topics such as the meaning of family and desires/expectations about the child, pregnancy, and motherhood. A total of 48 infertile women over 35 years of ages using high-complexity assisted reproductive technologies in private and public institutions participated in this research. The data were treated by content analysis in which the following themes emerged: family social representations; social representations of motherhood; expectations with pregnancy and maternal models; and the imagined son. Participants represented the family in a positive way as a support system and the foundation and origin of love, embracing the family as a social bond. On the other hand, the family concepts based on inbreeding were also present, representing the family by perpetuation of the species and the importance of biological bonds. Motherhood was marked by significant idealization, being seen as a gratifying role and the fulfillment of femininity. The weight of the social demand to procreate was also felt as a duty to be fulfilled that, in the impossibility of carrying it out, generates feelings of inferiority, worthlessness, impotence, and inadequacy toward society, which reinforce the stigma of infertility. Results point to the necessary reflections on the role of women and our culture since Motherhood is still used as a measure of female success or failure. They also point to a reflection on the possibility of greater inclusion of psychological work in assisted reproduction given the emotional and social burden involved in this process.(AU)

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo analizar las concepciones de maternidad de mujeres infértiles, de diferentes niveles socioeconómicos, que se encuentran en tratamiento de reproducción asistida. Se trata de un estudio cualitativo, descriptivo, que utilizó como instrumento una entrevista semiestructurada e incluyó temas como el sentido de la familia, deseos/expectativas sobre el hijo y el embarazo y expectativas sobre la maternidad. Participaron en la investigación un total de 48 mujeres infértiles, mayores de 35 años, usuarias de tecnologías de reproducción asistida de alta complejidad en instituciones públicas y privadas. Los datos se sometieron a análisis de contenido del cual surgieron los temas: representaciones sociales familiares; representaciones sociales de la maternidad; expectativas con el embarazo y modelos maternos; hijo imaginado. Las participantes representaron a la familia de manera positiva, como sistema de apoyo, fundamento y origen del amor, configurándola como vínculo social. Por otro lado, también estuvieron presentes las concepciones familiares basadas en la consanguinidad, representando a la familia para la perpetuación de la especie y la importancia del vínculo biológico. La maternidad estuvo marcada por una importante idealización, vista como un rol gratificante y de realización de la feminidad. También se sintió el peso de la demanda social de procrear como un deber que cumplir y que, ante la imposibilidad de realizarlo, genera sentimientos de inferioridad, desvalorización, impotencia e inadecuación en la sociedad, lo que refuerza el estigma de la infertilidad. Por tanto, son necesarias reflexiones sobre el papel de la mujer en nuestra cultura, ya que la maternidad se sigue utilizando como medida del éxito o fracaso femenino. También se reflexiona sobre la posibilidad de una mayor inclusión del trabajo psicológico en la reproducción asistida dada la carga emocional y social que implica este proceso.(AU)

Anillo vaginal anticonceptivo (MyRing®): estudio multicéntrico en mujeres venezolanas / Contraceptive vaginal ring (MyRing®): multicenter study in Venezuelan women

Objetivo: Evaluar los factores asociados al uso del anillo vaginal en mujeres venezolanas en edad reproductiva, con deseo de anticoncepción y con vida sexual activa. Métodos: Estudio observacional - descriptivo, multicéntrico. La muestra fue de tipo no probabilística, deliberada y de voluntarias. Se les proporcionó el anillo vaginal por tres ciclos y las consultas de seguimiento se realizaron al final del primer y tercer ciclo menstrual. Se evaluó la aceptabilidad, tolerabilidad, cumplimiento, control de ciclo menstrual y la presencia de efectos adversos. Resultados: Se incluyeron 140 mujeres, con edad promedio de 31,01 años ± 8,14. Los motivos de selección del anillo vaginal fueron: evita embarazo de manera efectiva (69,29 %), fácil de usar (68,57 %), uso mensual (65,71 %). El patrón de sangrado fue reportado como regular en 95 % de las mujeres en la segunda consulta y en 92,8 % en la tercera; 88,57 % reportó ausencia de sangrado intermenstrual. Hubo cumplimiento adecuado en 97,86 %; 96,43 % expresó que era fácil de usarlo y 92,86 % comodidad a nivel sexual. No hubo diferencias estadísticas significativas en el peso promedio en la segunda y tercera consulta (p > 0,05), ni en la tensión arterial sistólica y diastólica (p > 0,05). No hubo eventos adversos en 77 %, cuando los hubo, los más frecuentes fueron cefalea, náuseas y mastodinia; no hubo eventos adversos serios, ni embarazo. Conclusión: El anillo vaginal anticonceptivo es una opción bien tolerada con excelente aceptación, satisfacción sexual y general, segura, con escasos eventos adversos(AU)

Objective: To evaluate the factors associated with the use of the vaginal ring in Venezuelan women of reproductive age, with a desire for contraception and with an active sexual life. Methods: Observational - descriptive, multicenter study. The sample was non-probabilistic, deliberate and voluntary. The vaginal ring was provided for three cycles and follow-up visits were made at the end of the first and third menstrual cycles. Acceptability, tolerability, compliance, menstrual cycle control, and the presence of adverse effects were evaluated. Results: A total of 140 women were included, whose mean age was 31.01 ± 8.14 years. The reasons for selecting the vaginal ring were: effectively prevents pregnancy (69.29 %), easy to use (68.57 %), method of monthly use (65.71 %). The bleeding pattern was reported as regular in 95% of the women in the second consultation and in 92.8% in the third; 88.57% reported absence of intermenstrual bleeding. There was adequate compliance in 97.86%; 96.43% expressed that it was easy to use and 92.86% comfortable at a sexual level. There were no statistically significant differences in the average weight at the second and third consultation (p > 0.05), nor in systolic and diastolic blood pressure (p > 0.05). There were no adverse events in 77%, when there were, the most frequent were headache, nausea and mastodynia; there were no serious adverse events or pregnancy. Conclusion: The contraceptive vaginal ring is a well-tolerated option with excellent acceptance, sexual and general satisfaction, safe, with few adverse events(AU)

Influence of eCG and reproductive management in the resynchronization of ovulation in dairy goats

Resynchronization protocols have been proposed as a way of shortening females' unproductive time in the flock, with good results in cattle and sheep. In goats, initial studies have shown that a second progestogen device inserted before luteolysis and pregnancy diagnosis does not interfere with the corpus luteum lifespan or functionality. This study aimed to evaluate the follicular growth, ovulation pattern and pregnancy rate after insertion of a second and new progestogen device for resynchronizing, with or without equine Chorionic Gonadotrophin (eCG), submitted to natural mating (NM) or artificial insemination (AI) to propose a viable resynchronization protocol for dairy goats. A total of 38 multiparous Saanen goats underwent a short-term progesterone protocol [six days exposed to medroxyprogesterone acetate (MAP) intravaginal sponges + 200 IU eCG and 0.12 mg of cloprostenol sodium on the 5th day + 0.025 mg of lecirelin 34 hours after sponge withdrawal] and, on day 16th after the ovulation, received a new MAP device which was retained until day 21. At this moment females were split into four groups: GeCG+NM ­ 100 IU eCG with NM; GSal+NM ­ saline solution with NM; GeCG+AI ­ 100 IU eCG with AI; and GSal+AI ­ saline solution with AI. Ultrasound scans were performed every 12 h from sponge withdrawal (day 21) until 108 h after sponge withdrawal (day 25) for follicular dynamics evaluation, at 240 h (day 31) for assessing the presence of active corpus luteum, and on day 60 for pregnancy diagnosis. No differences were found regarding ovulation time, synchronization and follicle size. However, GeCG+NM presented a greater estrus manifestation rate (100%) and pregnancy rate (62.5%) when compared to GSal+AI. In conclusion, resynchronization protocols in dairy goats may present satisfactory results.(AU)

Correlation between estrus onset and ovarian parameters in dairy goats / Início do estro e sua correlação com os parâmetros ovarianos em cabras leiteiras

This study assessed the effects of social dominance on the behavioral estrus and ovarian parameters of dairy goats subjected to synchronous estrus induction during the non-breeding season. Synchronous estrus was induced in 23 dairy goats allocated to collective pens. Ovarian ultrasonography was performed at 12 h intervals from device removal to ovulation. Upon estrus onset (EO) detection, the goats were immediately removed from the pens. Dominance was scored according to EO in relation to device removal in each pen, with HD - high dominants (<36 h; n = 8), MD - medium dominants (36 to 48 h; n = 10) and LD - low dominants (>48 h; n = 5). Goats in estrus underwent flexible time artificial insemination (FxTAI) according to EO. The estrus response was 100.0%. The interval to estrus was longer (P<0.05) in LD (53.7 ± 6.5 h) than in MD (37.9 ± 5.5 h) and HD goats (32.3 ± 6.6 h), while the interval from device removal to ovulation was similar (P>0.05) among all groups. The interval from EO to FxTAI was longer in HD goats compared to the other groups (P<0.05). In conclusion, although social hierarchy influenced the time of EO, the ovarian parameters, including ovulation, were not affected.

Este estudo avaliou os efeitos da dominância social sobre o comportamento do estro e os parâmetros ovarianos de cabras leiteiras submetidas à indução sincronizada do estro durante a estação não reprodutiva. A sincronização foi induzida em 23 cabras leiteira alocadas em baias coletivas. A ultrassonografia foi realizada em intervalos de 12 horas desde a remoção do dispositivo até a ovulação. Após a detecção do início do estro (EO), as cabras foram imediatamente removidas dos currais. A dominância foi pontuada de acordo com EO em relação à remoção do dispositivo, sendo: HD - alto dominante (<36 h; n = 8), MD - médio dominante (36 a 48 h; n = 10) e LD - baixo dominante (>478 h; n = 5). As cabras em estro foram inseminadas artificialmente em tempo flexível (FxTAI). O intervalo de estro foi maior (P<0,05) em LD (53,7 ± 6,5 h) do que em MD (37,9 ± 5,5 h) e cabras HD (32,3 ± 6,6 h), por sua vez, o intervalo entre a remoção do dispositivo e a ovulação foi semelhante (P> 0,05) em todos os grupos. O intervalo de EO a FxTAI foi maior em cabras HD quando comparado aos outros grupos (P<0,05). Em conclusão, embora a hierarquia social tenha influenciado o tempo de início do estro, os parâmetros ovarianos incluindo a ovulação não foram afetados.

Método de Ovulação Billings: entre eficácia e desconhecimento / Billings Ovulation Method: between efficacy and lack of knowledge / Método de Ovulación Billings: entre la eficacia y el desconocimiento

Resumo Apesar dos grandes investimentos, os métodos artificiais de planejamento familiar ainda apresentam limitações. Desde a década de 1950, cientistas trabalham para desenvolver um método natural confiável. Este artigo revisa a literatura sobre o Método de Ovulação Billings, apontando sua lógica, sua eficácia, seus benefícios, seus desafios e suas regras. Trata-se de método natural, embasado em mais de cinquenta anos de pesquisas. Sua chave de leitura é o muco cervical, confiável indicador da fertilidade, e sua eficácia está entre 97% e 99%, comparável aos métodos mais eficazes. O método também é indicado para todo tipo de ciclo, pois não se baseia em cálculos, e sim na observação do muco. Conclui-se que no Brasil é preciso fortalecer programas que ofereçam educação sexual mais global à população, capacitando ainda profissionais da saúde a respeito dos métodos naturais de planejamento familiar.

Abstract Despite large investments, artificial family planning methods still have limitations. Since the 1950s, scientists have worked to develop a reliable natural method. This article reviews the literature on the Billings Ovulation Method, pointing out its logic, efficacy, benefits, challenges, and rules. It is a natural method, based on more than fifty years of research. Its reading key is the cervical mucus, a reliable indicator of fertility, and its efficacy is between 97 and 99%, comparable to most effective methods. Billings is also suitable for all types of cycles, as it is not based on calculations, but on the observation of the mucus. In conclusion, Brazil needs to strengthen programs that offer more global sexual education to the population, also training health professionals on natural family planning methods.

Resumen A pesar de las grandes inversiones, los métodos artificiales de planificación familiar todavía tienen limitaciones. Desde la década de 1950, los científicos vienen trabajando para desarrollar un método natural confiable. Este artículo revisa la literatura sobre el Método de Ovulación Billings, presentando su lógica, efectividad, beneficios, desafíos y reglas. Se trata de un método natural, basado en más de cincuenta años de investigación. Su clave es el moco cervical, un indicador confiable de fertilidad, y su efectividad está entre el 97% y el 99%, comparable a los métodos más efectivos. El Método de Ovulación Billings también es adecuado para todo tipo de ciclos, ya que no se fundamenta en cálculos, sino en la observación de mocos. Se concluye que en Brasil es necesario fortalecer programas que ofrezcan una educación sexual más global a la población, además de capacitar a los profesionales de la salud sobre métodos naturales de planificación familiar.

Serum microRNA profiling for the identification of predictive molecular markers of the response to controlled ovarian stimulation.

OBJECTIVE: To identify potential microRNA (miRNA) biomarkers of poor, normal and hyperresponse to controlled ovarian stimulation (COS). METHODS: In the present study, we assessed 40 serum samples from patients undergoing COS. We used ten samples to standardize miRNAs detection in the serum. The remaining 30 samples were split into three groups depending on the patient's response to COS: poor response (PR group, n=10), normal response (NR group, n=10), and hyperresponse (HR group, n=10). Aberrantly expressed miRNAs were identified using a large-scale expression analysis platform. Gene set enrichment analysis was performed to assess the biological processes potentially modulated by the identified miRNAs. RESULTS: Twenty-two miRNAs were detected only in the PR or HR groups when compared with the NR group. From those, 11 presented poor dissociation curves and were excluded from further analysis. A bioinformatics analysis revealed that the selected 11 miRNAs target several genes involved in GnRH, estrogen and prolactin signaling, oocyte maturation, female pregnancy, and meiosis. CONCLUSION: The large-scale analysis of miRNA expression identified distinct miRNA profiles for poor and hyperresponse to COS, which potentially modulate key processes for human assisted reproduction. All evidence suggests that the serum microRNA profiling may discriminate patients who will respond in an exacerbated manner from those who will respond insufficiently to COS. Further studies may validate these miRNAs, enabling the individualization of treatment and more successful outcomes.

Reproductive analysis of male and female captive jaguars (Panthera onca) in a Colombian zoological park.

A reproductive analysis of a captive group of jaguars (Panthera onca; n = 6) at the Santacruz Zoological Foundation in Cundinamarca, Colombia, was conducted by performing a longitudinal, noninvasive, hormonal analysis of estradiol and progestogens in females and of androgens in males. During four seasons, female jaguars confined in solitary were evaluated for ovarian activity and spontaneous ovulation, male jaguars for testicular activity. A second hormonal follow-up was conducted in the females after administration of gonadotropins. Hormones were extracted from fecal samples of three females (n = 3) and two males (n = 2). Estradiol measurements were obtained by RIA and progestogens by enzyme immunoassay. The linear mixed-effect regression showed that there was a significant effect of seasons in the concentrations of estradiol (chi square = 15.97, degrees of freedom = 3, P < 0.01). Posthoc comparisons of all pairs of seasonal means were conducted according to Tukey's honest significant difference, revealing significant differences between seasons: Dry 1 versus Rains 2 (P < 0.01), Rains 1 versus Rains 2 (P < 0.05), and Dry 2 versus Rains 2 (P < 0.05). Elevations of progestogens compatible with spontaneous ovulation occurred in three jaguars, and the linear mixed-effect regression showed that there was also a significant effect of seasons (chi square = 28.56, degrees of freedom = 3, P < 0.01). Posthoc comparisons showed significant differences only between seasons: Dry 2 versus Rains 2 (P < 0.01). The season with the lowest average concentration was Rains 2 (October, November, and December). During this season, periods of anestrous were registered that lasted between 31 and 83 days. The three females presented estradiol peaks after the administration of eCG. A noninvasive longitudinal analysis for androgens was also made (males 1 and 2) over the course of 1 year, and no significant differences were found between the different seasons. A seminal analysis of three adult male jaguars (Panthera onca; n = 3) was also performed after electroejaculation under general anesthesia (male 1 and 2) and by a postmortem epididymal wash (male 3). The mean concentration of spermatozoids was 5.7 × 106 ± 1.1 × 106 spermatozoa/mL. The progressive motility + standard deviation averaged 80%. The percentage of normal spermatozoids obtained by electroejaculation was 80 ± 2.8%, and the abnormalities found more frequently were head defects (7 ± 1.4%). The seminal fluid obtained by epididymal flush contained 35 ± 1.4% normal spermatozoids, and the most frequent abnormalities found corresponded to distal cytoplasmic droplets (39 ± 11.3%).

[Woman's experience with the choice of the Billings Ovulation Method]. / Vivência da mulher na escolha do Método de Ovulação Billings.

This is a case study with a qualitative approach, carried out between February and November 2010 with 10 women, mean age of 34 years old, users of this Billings Ovulation Method (MOB) for over than two years, with the objective of understand the experience of women by choosing the MOB. Data was obtained from interviews, and analyzed through content analysis technique. The categories of analysis showed that the reasons for the choices of the MOB were: religion; natural method, and benefits of self-knowledge. It was concluded that women show confidence in carrying out the method, that it brings benefits for users and that there is a need for professional guidance for its correct practice.

Vivência da mulher na escolha do Método de Ovulação Billings / Woman’s experience with the choice of the Billings Ovulation Method / Experiencia de la mujer en la elección del Método de Ovulación Billings

Trata-se de um estudo de caso com abordagem qualitativa, realizado entre fevereiro e novembro de 2010, com 10 mulheres, com idade média de 34 anos, usuárias do Método da Ovulação Billings (MOB), há mais de dois anos, cujo objetivo foi compreender a vivência da mulher na escolha do MOB. Os dados foram obtidos a partir de entrevistas, e analisados segundo a técnica de análise de conteúdo. As categorias de análise apontaram as principais infl uências na escolha do MOB: religião; naturalidade do método e benefícios do autoconhecimento. Concluiu-se que as mulheres revelam confiança na realização do método, que ele traz benefícios para as usuárias e que há necessidade de orientação profissional para a sua prática correta.

This is a case study with a qualitative approach, carried out between February and November 2010 with 10 women, mean age of 34 years old, users of this Billings Ovulation Method (MOB) for over than two years, with the objective of understand the experience of women by choosing the MOB. Data was obtained from interviews, and analyzed through content analysis technique. The categories of analysis showed that the reasons for the choices of the MOB were: religion; natural method, and benefits of self-knowledge. It was concluded that women show confidence in carrying out the method, that it brings benefits for users and that there is a need for professional guidance for its correct practice.

Se trata de un estudio de caso con abordaje cualitativa, realizado entre febrero y noviembre de 2010, con 10 mujeres, con edad media de 34 años, usuarias del Método de la Ovulación Billings (MOB) a más de dos años, cuyo objetivo fue comprender la vivencia de la mujer en elegir el MOB. Los dados se obtuvieron a partir de entrevistas, y fueran analizados según la técnica de análisis de contenido. Las categorías de análisis mostraron que las mayores infl uencias para la elección del MOB fueron: religión; naturalidad del método y beneficios del auto-conocimiento. Sin embargo, se concluye que las mujeres muestran confianza en la realización del método, que esto trae beneficios para ellas y que hay necesidad de orientación profesional para la práctica correcta del método.

Avaliação de estratégias para aumentar a fertilidade de fêmeas nelore submetidas a protocolos de sincronização / Evaluation of strategies to increase fertility of Nellore females submited to synchronization protocols

Três experimentos foram desenvolvidos para avaliar protocolos hormonais de sincronização de estro e ovulação em fêmeas Nelore, extratificadas nas três principais categorias de fêmeas (vacas secas, novilhas e vacas paridas) comumente encontradas nas propriedades. Os experimentos possuíam objetivos de comparar a performance reprodutiva das categorias supra citadas, sobre a taxa de detecção do estro, taxa de prenhez na IA (exp. I e II) e/ou IATF (exp III) e no repasse, de fêmeas submetidas a protocolos de sincronização do estro e ovulação. EXP I: Foram utilizadas vacas Nelore não lactantes (n=286), blocadas em um esquema fatorial 2x3, e receberam no D0 o CIDR e 2mg de benzoato de estradiol (BE). O CIDR permaneceu por 5 dias (D5) ou 7 dias (D7), no dia da remoção do CIDR, as vacas receberam PGF2α (12,5mg, 25mg ou 50mg), formando os tratamentos: 5d12,5mg, 5d25mg, 5d50mg, 7d12,5mg, 7d25mg e 7d50mg. [...] EXP II: Utilizou-se 407 novilhas Nelore pré-puberes, blocadas em um esquema fatorial 4x2, as novilhas receberam no D0 o CIDR e 2 mg de BE, o CIDR permaneceu por 5, 7, 9 ou 11 dias. No dia da remoção do CIDR, as novilhas receberam 25mg de PGF2α e 300 UI eCG. [...] EXP III: Foram utilizadas vacas Nelore lactantes (n=191), divididas em dois tratamentos: 1xPGF-5d (as vacas permaneceram com o CIDR por 7 dias, sendo que 25mg de PGF2α foi aplicada no D5); 2xPGF-0/7d (as vacas permaneceram com o CIDR por 7 dias, sendo realizadas duas aplicações de 12,5mg de PGF2α, no D0 e D7). O CIDR foi retirado no D7, e aplicou-se 0,3 ml de ECP e 300 UI de eCG. Após 50 horas todas as vacas foram submetidas à IATF. [...] A utilização do protocolo 7d BE+CIDR, apresenta bons resultados reprodutivos, sendo que podemos reduzir o número de manejos sem o comprometimento da performance reprodutiva, realizando a aplicação de 12,5mg na inserção e na retirada do CIDR

Three experiments were designed to evaluate estrus synchronization protocols in Nellore females of three different class (dry cows, heifers and lactating cows) commonly found in properties. The experiments had aim to compare a reproductive performance of the categories mentioned above, at the estrus detection, pregnancy rate at AI (exp. I and II) or TAI (exp. III), pregnancy rate at rebreeding, of females submited to estrus synchronization program and ovulation. EXP I: Nonlactating Nellore cows (n=286), were randomized in a 2x3 fatorial arrangement. All animals received the CIDR and 2 mg of EB at D0, the CIDR remained for 5 days (D5) or 7 days (D7). At day of CIDR removal, cows received PGF2α treatments (12.5mg, 25mg and 50mg), the treatments followed: 5d12.5mg, 5d25mg, 5d50mg, 7d12.5mg, 7d25mg and 7d50mg. [...] EXP II: Prepubertal Nellore heifers (n=407), randomized in a 4x2 factorial arrangement. Heifers received CIDR and 2 mg EB at D0, CIDR remained for 5, 7, 9 or 11 days. On day of CIDR removal, heifers received 25mg of PGF2α and 300 IU of eCG. [...] EXP III: Lactating Nellore cows (n=191) were randomized in two groups, 1xPGF-5d (cows received CIDR for 7 days, and 25 mg of PGF was applied on D5); 2xPGF-0/7d (cows received CIDR for 7 days, and two injections of 12.5mg of PGF, on D0 an D7). CIDR was removed on D7, and was associate with injections of 0.3 ml ECP and 300 IU of eCG. TAI was performed 50 h after CIDR removal. [...]The use of 7d EB+CIDR program yields good reproductive results, and we can reduce a number of handlings without reduce a reproductive performance

[Family planning methods based on fertility awareness]. / Métodos de planificación familiar basados en el conocimiento de la fertilidad.

The desire to limit fertility is recognized both by individuals and by nations. The concept of family planning is based on the right of individuals and couples to regulate their fertility and is based in the area of health, human rights and population. Despite the changes in policies and family planning programs worldwide, there are large geographic areas that have not yet met the minimum requirements in this regard, the reasons are multiple, including economic reasons but also ideological or religious. Knowledge on the physiology of the menstrual cycle, specifically ovulation process has been further enhanced due to the advances in reproductive medicine research. The series of events around ovulation are used to detect the "fertile window", this way women will look for the possibility of postponing their pregnancy or actually start looking for it. The aim of this article is to review the current methods of family planning based on fertility awareness, from the historical methods like the core temperature determination and rhythm, to the most popular ones like the Billings ovulation method, the Sympto-thermal method and current methods like the two days, and the standard days method. There are also mentioned methods that require electronic devices or specifically computer designed ones to detect this "window of fertility". The spread and popularity of these methods is low and their knowledge among physicians, including gynecologists, is also quite scarce. The effectiveness of these methods has been difficult to quantify due to the lack of well designed, randomized studies which are affected by small populations of patients using these methods. The publications mention high effectiveness with their proper use, but not with typical use, what indicates the need for increased awareness among medical practitioners and trainers, obtaining a better use and understanding of methods and reducing these discrepancies.

Monitoring of ovarian activity by measurement of urinary excretion rates of estrone glucuronide and pregnanediol glucuronide using the Ovarian Monitor, Part II: reliability of home testing.

BACKGROUND: The UNDP/WHO/World Bank/Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (Geneva) set up a study to determine whether it is feasible for women to monitor their ovarian activity reliably by home testing. Daily self-monitoring of urinary hormone metabolites for menstrual cycle assessment was evaluated by comparison of results obtained with the Home Ovarian Monitor by untrained users both at home and in study centres. METHODS: Women collected daily data for urinary estrone glucuronide (E1G) and pregnanediol glucuronide (PdG) for two cycles, then the procedure was repeated in the women's local centre (in Chile, Australia or New Zealand) giving a total of 113 duplicate cycles. The tests were performed without the benefit of replicates or quality controls. The home and centre cycles were normalized and compared to identify assay errors, and the resulting home and centre menstrual cycle profiles were averaged. RESULTS: Reliable mean cycle profiles were obtained with the home and centre excretion rates agreeing to within 36 ± 21 nmol/24 h for E1G and 0.77 ± 0.28 µmol/24 h for baseline PdG values (1-5 µmol/24 h). The cycles had a mean length of 28.1 ± 3.1 days (n = 112; 5th and 95th percentiles: 24 and 35 days, respectively), a mean follicular phase of 14.8 ± 3.1 days (n = 107; 5th and 95th percentiles: 11 and 21 days) and a mean luteal phase length of 13.3 ± 1.5 days (n = 106; 5th and 95th percentiles: 11 and 17 days), calculated from the day of the LH peak. CONCLUSIONS: The study confirmed that the Ovarian Monitor pre-coated assay tubes worked well even in the hands of lay users, without standard curves, quality controls or replicates. Point-of-care monitoring to give reliable fertility data is feasible.

Avaliação do desempenho reprodutivo de vacas de corte lactantes submetidas à IATF a partir da aplicação do GnRH, da manifestação estral, da reutilização de dispositivos intravaginais e da condição corporal / Evaluation of reproductive performance of lactating beef cows subjected to FTAI from the application of Gnrh, estrus manifestation, re-use of intravaginal devices and body condition

Background: The success of fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) is linked to several factors that affect pregnancy rates. The use of different hormones, estrus expression and body condition score (BCS) are variables that can influence the results of the technique. The increased production of calves provides greater amount of steers to slaughter. The productive intensification of the beef cows breeding depends on factors related to reproductive technique used and the physiological conditioning of animals. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the application of GnRH, estrus manifestation, re-use of progesterone intravaginal devices and BCS on pregnancy rates of cows subjected to FTAI. Materials, Methods & Results: Were analyzed the effects of GnRH injection and re-use of intravaginal device, estrus manifestation and body condition score (BCS) on reproductive performance of 222 Montana beef cows subjected to fixedtime artificial insemination (FTAI). The FTAI protocol was based on the placement of intravaginal progesterone device (1st, 2nd or 3rd use) and application of estradiol benzoate (E.B.) (2 mg) on day 0. On day 8 was applied sodium cloprostenol (500 µg), removed the intravaginal device and performed the separation of calves. On day 9 was applied E.B. (1 mg) and started the observation of estrus in the morning, afternoon and morning of day 10. On the afternoon of day 10 was realized the insemination, part of the animals showed estrus received buserelin acetate (GnRH) (100µg); the same was proceeded with the animals without estrus. After FTAI the calves returned to cows. Thus, it was formed four groups: Without-Estrus/Without-GnRH; Without-Estrus/With-GnRH; With-Estrus/Without-GnRH; With-Estrus/With-GnRH. The evaluation alone of application of GnRH (with and without) and estrus manifestation (with and without) had no effect on pregnancy rates to FTAI and pregnancy final (P > 0.05). The evaluation of the interaction between GnRH and estrus had no effect on the FTAI pregnancy (P > 0.05): cows Without-Estrus/Without-GnRH did not differ those with GnRH, 33.3% and 48.4% respectively; cows With-Estrus/Without-GnRH did not differ those with GnRH, 53.2% and 53.8% respectively. Intravaginal device 1st, 2nd and 3rd use did not influence pregnancy rates to FTAI and final pregnancy, 50.0%, 57.7%, 41.7% and 91.7%, 88.5%, 93 8% respectively (P > 0.05). The BCS influenced the pregnancy rate to FTAI and final pregnancy, animals with BCS ≥ 3.0 had a higher pregnancy rate to FTAI and animals with BCS ≥ 2.5 had a higher pregnancy to final pregnancy (P < 0.05). The BCS also influenced the estrus manifestation, animals with BCS ≥ 2.5 had higher rates of estrus (P < 0.05). The intravaginal device 1st use promoted greater estrus manifestation in relation to the 2nd and 3rd use (P < 0.05). Discussion: The pregnancy rates did not have the effect of application of GnRH. Some studies report that effect of GnRH is related to estrus phase of the cow. Although 11 percentage points above to cows with estrus, the manifestation estrus did not influence the pregnancy and also did not interact with GnRH. However, it is reported that estrus before at insemination may be conducive to conception. The intravaginal devices used did not influence the pregnancy rates, showing that it is possible re-use them. The results showed at importance of BCS to pregnancy, studies report that cows with low BCS have difficulty to pregnant at FTAI and clean-up bulls. The estrus manifestation was influenced by the BCS and the intravaginal device used.

Hormonal monitoring of reproductive status in monogamous wild female owl monkeys (Aotus azarai) of the Argentinean Chaco.

The Neotropical owl monkeys (Aotus spp.) are a good model for evaluating the hypothesis that monogamy may arise if female reproductive cycles limit the mating potential of males. To evaluate this hypothesis, we first needed to assess the feasibility of using fecal sampling for monitoring the reproductive status of females. We collected fecal samples (n = 242, from 7 females) from wild adult Aotus azarai females in the Gran Chaco forests of Argentina during 3 years. Fecal estrone-1-glucuronide (E(1)C) and pregnenadiol-3-glucuronide (PdG) tended to rise in parallel during the luteal phase. The average cycle length was 22 ± 3 days (n = 5 females, 10 cycles). We identified 2 conceptive cycles and characterized the E(1)C and PdG profiles of 2 pregnancies. This report is the first of its kind on wild female owl monkeys. Despite the difficulties in sample collection and processing in the field and providing a species-specific validation in the laboratory, we show that fecal samples from A. azarai can be used for monitoring female reproductive status and function.

A mastalgia pré-menstrual está associada a ciclos ovulatórios / The premenstrual breast pain is associated with ovulatory cycles

Objetivo: O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a associação entre o sintoma de mastalgia pré-menstrual com a existência de ciclos ovulatórios. Métodos: O estudo foi do tipo observacional, prospectivo, com corte transversal. Oitenta e cinco mulheres (85), algumas (65) com sintomas de mastalgia pré-menstrual (mastalgia cíclica), foram submetidas a um exame ultrassonográfico transvaginal com Doppler colorido, no 22º dia do ciclo menstrual (fase lútea média), para constatação da ovulação (imagem sugestiva de corpo lúteo e endométrio secretor). A seguir, foram determinados os índices de resistência arterial na periferia do corpo lúteo e no ovário contralateral. Como referência, foi usado o índice de resistência arterial de Pourcelot (RI=S-D/S). Resultados: Índices de resistência arterial significantemente mais baixos foram observados nos ovários nos quais havia ocorrido a ovulação (periferia do corpo lúteo), quando comparados com os índices de resistência das artérias ovarianas contralaterais. Todas as mulheres com sintomas de mastalgia pré-menstrual haviam ovulado, segundo os critérios da pesquisa. Conclusão: O sintoma de mastalgia pré-menstrual pode ser associado a ciclos ovulatórios.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the association between breast pain symptom withthe presence of ovulatory cycles. Methods: The study was observational, prospective, and crosssectional. Eight five women (85), some of them (65) with premenstrual mastalgia symptoms (cyclic mastalgia), underwent a transvaginal ultrasound with color Doppler, in the 22th day of the menstrual cycle (luteal phase), for confirmation of ovulation (suggestive image of corpus luteum and secretory endometrium). Then, it was determined the arterial resistance indexes on corpus luteum periphery and on the contralateral ovary. As a reference, we used the arterial resistance index of Pourcelot (RI=S-D/S). Results: Indices of arterial resistance significantly lower were observed in the ovaries in which ovulation had occurred (the periphery of the corpus luteum),compared with the contralateral ovarian arteries. All women with symptoms of pré-menstrual mastalgia had ovulated, according to the research criteria. Conclusion: Symptoms of premenstrual breast pain may be associated with ovulatory cycles.

Sincronização de estro em vacas utilizando - se diferentes implantes intravaginal de progesterona / Sincronización de estro en vacas utilizándose diferentes implantes intravaginal de progesterona / Oestrus synchronization using different progesterone intravaginal device

Para se avaliar a dinâmica ovariana, concentração de progesterona e taxa de gestação, 74 vacas Nelore foram inseridas ao acaso em dois Grupos para sincronização de estro. No GI (37 animais) utilizou-se para sincronização do estro, uma esponja artesanal impregnada com 200 mg de medoxiprogesterona e oxitetraciclina (ESTRO FORTE) e no GII, um implante de progesterona comercial (CIDR®). No dia do implante (D0) administrou-se benzoato de estradiol intramuscular (IM) (2mg - Estrogin®), na retirada (D7) administrou-se 300 µg de análogo de prostaglandina IM (Veteglan®), no D8 administrou-se IM indutor da ovulação (1000 UI hCG - Vetecor®) e no D9 realizou-se a inseminação artificial em tempo fixo (IATF), com sêmen de touro de eficiência e qualidade comprovada. Escolheram-se ao acaso 15 animais, para dosagem de progesterona sérica, nos dias: implante (D0), retirada (D7), D9, D17, D22, D25 e D30, e para avaliação transretal ultrassonográfica ovariana, a fim de se determinar o número e diâmetro do maior folículo em cada ovário. O diagnóstico de gestação foi realizado 35 dias da IATF e confirmado 25 dias após. O diâmetro médio diário do maior folículo foi semelhante entre os grupos e ovários (p>0,05), e também se observou efeito de interação entre o dispositivo de preparação artesanal (ESTRO FORTE) e o ovário esquerdo, que apresentou maior diâmetro folicular médio total. A concentração média de progesterona e a taxa de gestação de 27,03% (10/37) e 32,43% (12/37), foram semelhantes entre os grupos I e II, respectivamente. Concluiu-se que a sincronização de estro em vacas Nelore utilizando-se esponja intravaginal de progesterona de preparação artesanal (ESTRO FORTE) e comercial (CIDR®) apresenta desempenho semelhante em relação a dinâmica ovariana, ao perfil de progesterona e a taxa de gestação.(AU)

In order to evaluate the ovarian dynamics, concentration of progesterone and pregnancy rate, 74 Nelore cows were randomly subjected to two protocols of synchronization of estrus using in the Group I a device intravaginal of craft progesterone (ESTRO FORTE) and in the Group II, a commercial (CIDR®). It was chosen at random 15 animals, for determination of serum progesterone, on the day of implantation (D0), in the withdrawal (D7), on day nine, 17, 22, 25 and 30, and for evaluation to transrectal ovarian ultrasonography, to determination of the number and diameter of the largest follicle in each ovary. The diagnosis of pregnancy was performed 35 days after the FTAI and confirmed 25 days after. The daily average diameter of the largest follicle was similar between groups and ovaries (p> 0.05), and also revealed an interaction effect between the device of craft preparing (ESTRO FORTE) and the left ovary, that had showed higher medium total follicular diameter. The average concentration of progesterone and the pregnancy rate, 27.03% (10/37) e 32.43% (12/37), were similar between experimental groups. It was concluded that the synchronization of estrus in Nellore cows using a progesterone intravaginal device of craft preparing (ESTRO FORTE) and commercial (CIDR®) shows similar performance in relation to ovarian dynamics, to profile of progesterone and to pregnancy rate.(AU)

Para evaluar la dinámica de ovario, concentración de progesterona y índice de preñez, 74 vacas Nelore fueron inseridas al ocaso en dos grupos para sincronización de estro. En el GI (37 animales) se utilizó para sincronización de estro, una esponja artesanal impregnada con 200 mg de medoxiprogesterona y oxitetraciclina (ESTRO FUERTE) y en el GII, un implante de progesterona comercial (CIDR®). En el día del implante (D0) se administró benzoato de estradiol intramuscular (IM) (2mg - Estrogin®), en la retirada (D7) se administró 300 µg de análogo de prostaglandina IM (Veteglan®), en el D8 se administró inductor de ovulación (1000 UI hCG - Vetecor®) y en el D9 se realizó la inseminación artificial en tiempo fijo (IATF), con semen de toro de eficiencia y calidad comprobada. Eligieron al ocaso 15 animales, para dosificación de progesterona sérica, en los días: implante (D0), retirada (D7), (D9), D17, D22, D25 y D30, y para evaluación transrectal ultrasonográfica de ovario, para determinar el número y diámetro del mayor folículo en cada ovario. El diagnóstico de preñez se realizó 35 días de IATF y se confirmó 25 días después. El diámetro medio diario del mayor folículo fue semejante entre los grupos y ovarios (p>0,05), y también se pudo observar efecto de interacción entre el dispositivo de preparación artesanal (ESTRO FUERTE) y el ovario izquierdo, que presentó mayor diámetro folicular medio total. La concentración media de progesterona y el índice de preñez de 27,03% (10/37) y 32,43% (12/37), fueron semejantes entre los grupos I y II, respectivamente. Se concluyó que la sincronización de estro en vacas Nelore utilizando esponja intravaginal de progesterona de preparación artesanal (ESTRO FUERTE) y comercial (CIDR®) presenta desempeño semejante en relación a la dinámica de ovario, al perfil de progesterona y el índice de preñez.(AU)

Four hours of daily contact with sexually active males is sufficient to induce fertile ovulation in anestrous goats.

The study was conducted on two consecutive years to determine whether ovulatory activity can be induced in anovulatory goats by exposing them to sexually active bucks for 4, 8, 12 or 16 h per day during 15 consecutive days. In experiment 1, females remained continuously in the experimental pens where they were in contact with males. One group remained isolated from males (controls) and four other groups were exposed to sexually active males for 4, 8, 12 or 16 h per day. In experiment 2, females were taken away to "resting" pens free of male odours between the periods of contact with bucks. They were allocated to 5 groups as in experiment 1. Ovulations were determined by progesterone plasma levels and transrectal ultrasonography. Pregnancy was determined by abdominal ultrasonography. In both experiments, more than 90% of females exposed to the bucks had at least one ovulation during the whole experiment whereas only 11 or 0% (experiments 1 and 2, respectively) did so in the control group (P<0.001). Furthermore, the proportion of females ovulating did not differ among groups depending on duration of contact with bucks (P>0.05). In both experiments, pregnancy rates were not affected by the daily duration of contact with males (P>0.05). To conclude, 4h of daily contact with sexually active males is sufficient to stimulate ovulatory activity in anovulatory goats and this effect is not due to the presence of olfactory cues from the males remaining in the pens.

Comparison of two methods of synchronization of estrus in brown brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira).

This study aimed to establish a protocol for synchronization of estrus in brown brocket deer (Mazama gouazoubira). Two groups of hinds (n=3) were submitted to two different protocols: Treatment 1 received an intravaginal progesterone (CIDR) device for 8 days, followed by 265microg injection of cloprostenol at the time of removal; and Treatment 2 received two injections of 265microg of cloprostenol 11 days apart. After 30 days, each group of three hinds received the other treatment. Treatment efficacy was evaluated by reproductive behavior, fecal progestin and estrogen concentration and the observation of CL by laparoscopy 6 days after the end of estrus. All the hinds (100%) had estrous behavior upon the completion of treatment, but a significant difference occurred between the time of onset, 70.5+/-5.0h for Treatment 1 and 52.3+/-5.6h for Treatment 2. The mean estrus duration time (34.7+/-4.50 and 37.0+/-8.11h), ovulation rates (5/6 and 4/6), mean CL size (4.85+/-0.74 and 3.21+/-0.19mm) and mean fecal progestin concentration at 6 days after the end of estrus (865.53+/-76.59 and 1073.35+/-106.82ng/g feces) were not significantly different between treatments. There was no difference in fecal estrogen concentrations throughout the treatment and the greatest values of the estrogen:progestin ratio coincided with estrous behavior. Although fertility was not evaluated directly, both treatments were effective in synchronizing estrus in the species M. gouazoubira, with the formation of functional corpora lutea.

Taxa de concepção de éguas submetidas a duas frequências de palpação retal (24 e 12 horas) e cobertas após a ovulação / Conception rate of mares controlled by two rectal palpation intervals (24 or 12 h)and breeeding after ovulation

Este trabalho foi realizado com o objetivo de estudar a fertilidade de éguas cobertas após a ovulação, segundo um manejo de palpação retal a cada 24 (P1) ou 12 horas (P2), e cobertas por dois garanhões (G1 e G2). O estudo utilizou 84 ciclos estrais de 50 éguas mestiças do tipo militar, distribuídos ao acaso, segundo um esquema fatorial 2 x 2. A taxa de gestação para o primeiro, segundo e terceiro ciclos estrais foram de: 29,41 por cento (5/17) e 50 por cento (4/8) para o grupo P1G1; 25 por cento (5/20), 54,54 por cento (6/11) e 100 por cento (2/2) para o grupo P2G1; 41,66 por cento (5/12) e 50 por cento (2/4) para o grupo P1G2; e de 60 por cento (6/10) para o grupo P2G2, respectivamente. A taxa de gestação total/ciclo, para cada um dos quatro tratamentos, foi de 36 por cento (9/25), 39,40 por cento (13/33), 43,75 por cento (7/16) e 60 por cento (6/10), respectivamente. A taxa de concepção por ciclo estral não diferiu (p>0,05), pelo teste Exato de Fisher. Assim, os dados foram reagrupados levando-se apenas em consideração a freqüência de palpação retal, e obteve-se 39,02 por cento (16/41) e 44,19 por cento (19/43) de taxa de concepção/ciclo e 55,20 por cento (16/29) e 63,30 por cento (19/30) de taxa de concepção total para os intervalos de palpação de 24 e 12 horas, respectivamente.

The objective of the experiment was to study the fertility of mares bred after ovulation, detected by rectal palpation every 24 (P1) or 12 hours (P2), using two stallions (G1 and G2). This study was done with 84 estrus cycles of 50 military crossbred mares, randomly assigned to four treatments. The conception rate for first, second and third estrus cycles were 29.41 percent (5/17) and 50.00 percent (4/8) for group P1G1; 25.00 percent (5/20), 54.54 percent (6/11) and 100.00 percent (2/2) for group P2G1; 41.66 percent (5/12) and 50.00 percent (2/4) for group P1G2; and 60.00 percent (6/10) for group P2G2, respectively. The conception rate for each treatment were 36.00 percent (9/25), 39.40 percent (13/33), 43.75 percent (7/16) and 60.00 percent (6/10). The conception rate by estrus cycle did not differ (p>0.05) by Fisher Test. The data obtained were regrouped considering only the rectal palpation frequency and it was obtained 39.02 (16/41) and 44.19 percent (19/43) for conception rate by estrus cycle and 55.20 percent (16/29) and 63.30 percent (19/30) for total conception rate for 24 and 12 to rectal palpation intervals, respectively.