The links between uterine infection and infertility

Abstract Text: The objective of this presentation is to explain the impact that uterine infections have on female reproductive fertility and dairy production. Uterine infections such as metritis and endometritis are prevalent amongst Holsteins primarily after parturition. Anatomical barriers act as a natural defense against bacterial pathogens, but during parturition these barriers are compromised. While these infections can be treated, they pose lasting negative effects on fertility.  Escherichia coli and Trueperella pyogenes are the most common pathogens that cause uterine infections. These pathogens initiate an inflammatory response in the endocrine signaling system, the endometrium, and the ovaries. The inflammatory responses in these organs, coupled with innate immunity can overload the female reproductive tract and lead to infertility. It is not known why reproductive fertility is compromised even after the uterine infection is treated. Further research is needed to better understand the exact mechanisms that lead to infertility. When those mechanisms are discovered, there is a potential to intervene before fertility is compromised. There are also current developments for metritis vaccines to prevent uterine infections. Until further advancements are made in those areas, implementing good management practices such as nutrition and hygiene during partition are feasible solutions.

Keywords: cow, immunity, fertility, infection, uterus