Postpartum evaluation of bovine reproductive potential: comparison of findings from genital tract examination per rectum, uterine culture, and endometrial biopsy.

The genital tract of 106 cows was evaluated after parturition by rectal palpation and by visual inspection of vaginal discharges. Analysis of these results revealed a significant (P less than 0.01) correlation with the ratings of endometrial biopsies. The most frequent bacterial isolations included Corynebacterium pyogenes, coliforms, or streptococci, or combinations thereof. Abnormal ratings obtained by gross evaluation and by histologic examination were associated principally with C pyogenes. Purulent discharges in particular were highly correlated (P less than 0.01) with infection caused by C pyogenes. Neither the gross genital tract condition nor the uterine histopathology rating was positively correlated with conception rate; however, the association between days open and conception rate was significant (P less than 0.05). Bacterial infections significantly (P less than 0.05) increased the number of services required for conception and significantly (P less than 0.01) increased the number of cows culled because of infertility. Cows up to 4 years old had a 61% 1st-service conception rate compared with 35% for older cows, and this difference was significant (P less than 0.05). The development of one or more postpartum diseases significantly (P less than 0.05) reduced 1st-service conception rate, whereas milk production was negatively correlated (P less than 0.05) with conception.