Effect of prostaglandin F2 alpha administered before estrus synchronization with norgestomet and estradiol valerate on calving rates of beef cows.

Three experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of prostaglandin F2 alpha treatments 5, 9, and 14 d before Syncro-Mate B on calving rates of 1,072 beef cows from inseminations at a pre-set time. The administration of prostaglandin F2 alpha 5 d before Syncro-Mate B decreased (P < .01) calving rates. This reduction was associated with lower (P < .05) calving rates in cows administered Syncro-Mate B in the first half of the estrous cycle. Calving rates were unaffected n cows administered prostaglandin F2 alpha 9 d before Syncro-Mate B. The administration of prostaglandin F2 alpha 14 d before Syncro-Mate B reduced (P < .05) calving rates in previously anestrous cows. In summary, prostaglandin F2 alpha should not be administered to postpartum cows 5 to 14 d before Syncro-Mate B synchronization.