ABSTRACT
Reproductive success relies on a complex sequence of actions that involve the interaction of a great number of tissues and physiological events. These include the hypothalamus, pituitary, ovaries, uterus, embryo, foetus, endocrinology, intracellular signalling, gene transcription and protein formation and modification, to mention but a few. Since reproduction and fertility are such a central component of successful dairy enterprises, these events have attracted much attention from physiologists and practitioners (e.g. farmers) alike, and the appropriate management and understanding of these events is critical for a good outcome. Here, we first discuss the physiology of the main impediments to fertility (also summarized in Fig. 1) and then management issues that need to be addressed in order to ensure good fertility of dairy cows.
