The study groups (
n = 39) included ewes with ongoing pregnancy (P+;
n = 19), with fetal death (FD;
n = 12), and that were not pregnant (P−;
n = 8). Blood samples were taken on days 10, 20, 30, 40, 60,
[...] Read more.
The study groups (
n = 39) included ewes with ongoing pregnancy (P+;
n = 19), with fetal death (FD;
n = 12), and that were not pregnant (P−;
n = 8). Blood samples were taken on days 10, 20, 30, 40, 60, 80, and 150 post-mating. Ultrasonography (USG) controls started on day 30. The P
4 concentrations differed significantly between P+ and P− on all days (
p < 0.001). Regarding AMH concentrations, a significant difference was observed between P+ and P− on day 30. P
4 increased significantly from day 60 to 80 and remained elevated until day 150 in P+, while remaining basal in P−. In FD and P− groups, P
4 reached its lowest concentrations. A rapid decrease in P
4 was observed in P− from day 20 onwards. A statistically significant difference in P
4 was also noted between P+ and FD. Additionally, P
4 concentrations differed between singleton and twin pregnancies, especially on days 20 and 40. Statistically significant differences in AMH were found between P+ and FD on days 10, 20, and 30. In P+ sheep, P
4, AMH, and Hp concentrations varied by season. A significant relationship was found between AMH and Hp concentrations and body weight. In conclusion, P
4 stands out as the primary marker for distinguishing pregnancy status and detecting embryonic loss, while AMH provides complementary support, particularly in identifying fetal death. Seasonal changes were reflected across P
4, AMH, and Hp concentrations, with AMH and Hp also showing significant associations with BW.
Full article