Prostaglandin use in broodmares: part 1: uses, physiology and safety

The use of prostaglandins in equine reproduction is widespread. Their applications in this area have progressed from PGF2α-induced luteolysis and manipulation of the mares' oestrous cycle to the treatment of other reproductive problems, such as oviductal blockage and foal rejection. This article is the first part of a narrative review on the use of prostaglandins in equine reproduction, focusing on physiology and safety aspects along with clinical applications and recent updates. This article focuses primarily on prostaglandin use pertaining to the ovaries and oestrous cycle (anovulatory follicles, persistent corpus luteum, luteolysis and oestrus manipulation), while the second article will examine various other reported applications all relate to equine reproduction and the broodmare (termination of pregnancy, oviductal blockage, foal rejection).