Increased Frequency of Double Ovulations after Induction of Luteolysis with Exogenous Prostaglandin F2α

The effect of induction of luteolysis by intramuscular treatment with prostaglandin F2α (PGF) on the frequency of double ovulations and formation of hemorrhagic anovulatory follicles (HAFs) was studied. The PGF (5 mg) was given 10 days after ovulation (n = 47 estrous cycles). No treatment or sham injection was used for control estrous cycles (n = 39). After treatment, the mares were scanned by transrectal ultrasonic imaging every 2 days until the largest follicle reached 25 mm and every day thereafter until the outcome of all follicles of at least 25 mm was determined. The frequency of two ovulations during the posttreatment ovulatory period was greater (P < .03) in the treated group (17%) than in the controls (3%). The combined frequency of two ovulations or one ovulation and one HAF also was greater (P < .002) in the treated group (30% vs. 5%). Equine veterinarians should be aware that PGF induction of luteolysis may increase the frequency of double ovulations or HAFs.