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The estrous cycle (from Latin oestrus 'frenzy', originally from Ancient Greek οἶστρος (oîstros) 'gadfly') is a set of recurring physiological changes induced by reproductive hormones in females of mammalian subclass Theria.[1] Estrous cycles start after sexual maturity in females and are interrupted by anestrous phases, otherwise known as "rest" phases, or by pregnancies. Typically, estrous cycles repeat until death. These cycles are widely variable in duration and frequency depending on the species.[2] Some animals may display bloody vaginal discharge, often mistaken for menstruation.[3] Many mammals used in commercial agriculture, such as cattle and sheep, may have their estrous cycles artificially controlled with hormonal medications for optimum productivity.[4][5] The male equivalent, seen primarily in ruminants, is called rut.[2]
- ^ Hill, M. A. (2021, April 6) Embryology Estrous Cycle. Retrieved from https://embryology.med.unsw.edu.au/embryology/index.php/Estrous_Cycle
- ^ a b Bronson, F. H., 1989. Mammalian Reproductive Biology. University of Chicago Press, Chicago, IL, USA.
- ^ Llera, Ryan; Yuill, Cheryl (2021). "Estrous Cycles in Dogs". VCA Hospitals. Retrieved April 6, 2021.
- ^ "Synchronizing Estrus in Cattle - How does estrus synchronization work?". Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Retrieved 2021-03-22.
- ^ Medicine, Center for Veterinary (2021-03-05). "The Cattle Estrous Cycle and FDA-Approved Animal Drugs to Control and Synchronize Estrus—A Resource for Producers". FDA.