Abstract

    In the present study, 20 Nili-Ravi buffaloes were divided into two equal groups. Group A buffaloes (treatment group) were administered with prostaglandin F2 alpha (Lutalyse, Upjohn), 2 hours after calving while the group B buffaloes were not given any treatment and designated as control. The reproductive organs of each experimental buffalo were rectally palpated on days 14 and 21 postpartum, followed by twice a week rectal palpation until the first postpartum oestrus. The results revealed that cervical and uterine involution was completed significantly (P< 0.05) earlier in-group A as compared to group B (28.90 ± 1.79 vs. 35.40 ± 3.95 days). There was no difference in the diameter of cervices and gravid and non-gravid uterine horns at day 14 postpartum. A significant difference between the groups was obtained on days 21, 25, 28 and 32 postpartum in the diameter of cervices and gravid horns (on days 21, 25 and 28). The overall period required for complete regression of corpus luteum of pregnancy was 19.20 ± 4.87 days in treated group and 18.40 ± 6.07 days in control group, the difference was non-significant (P>0.05). Follicular activity resumed independently of uterine involution. It was however, delayed slightly by the retained corpus luteum of pregnancy. The mean postpartum interval of initial follicular development was 21.20 ± 5.71 days in treated and 28.20 ± 8.75 days in control groups, respectively. The difference was statistically significant (P< 0.05). Postpartum oestrus interval was shortened in treated group (79. 50 ± 19.83 days) as compared to control group (103.0 ± 17.45 days) and the difference was significant (P< 0.05). So it seems beneficial to administer prostaglandin F2 alpha in postpartum buffaloes to reduce the period for uterine involution and enhance the subsequent reproductive performance.