Single Prostaglandin F2α Injection in Barbari Goats: Ovarian Dynamics and Alterations in the Relationship of Estradiol-17β and Progesterone with Standing Estrus, Preovulatory Follicles, and Ovulation

The objective of the current study was to evaluate the plasma endocrine profiles and ovarian follicular dynamics resulting from a single, random injection of PGF2α given to Barbari goats during the breeding season. B mode ultrasonography was used to monitor ovarian dynamics every 12 hours, while bucks with aprons were employed to identify standing estrus every 6 hours. Additionally, blood samples were collected every 12 hours for hormonal analysis, which included measurements of progesterone and estradiol 17β. The goats were classified into three groups: early responders (n = 7), intermediate responders (n = 6), and late responders (n = 6), with significant differences observed (p < 0.05) in the initiation of standing estrus and ovulation in conjunction with PGF2α administration. Remarkably, the peak plasma concentration of estradiol 17β was observed twelve hours prior to ovulation. While the average size of the ovulatory follicle and the duration of standing estrus were comparable across groups (p > 0.05), early responders showed a quicker degeneration of the corpus luteum compared to their intermediate and late counterparts (p < 0.05). Variability in estradiol 17β levels and dominant follicle diameter was significantly different among the groups (p < 0.05), whereas progesterone concentrations remained stable (p = 0.065). Furthermore, fluctuations in progesterone levels over time were significant (p < 0.05), suggesting that the interplay of hormonal and follicular dynamics during the luteal phase affects both the timing and duration of estrus and ovulation in Barbari goats after PGF2α treatment.