4,503
edits
Changes
Oestrous Cycle - Anatomy & Physiology (view source)
Revision as of 13:59, 10 September 2008
, 13:59, 10 September 2008→Regressing Corpus Luteum
==== Regressing Corpus Luteum ====
==== Regressing Corpus Luteum ====
* The corpus luteum remains its maximum size until the onset of pro-oestrus (~24 hours before heat).
* When the cow comes into heat, the corpus luteum undergoes rapid reduction in size and changes colour and appearance.
* By the middle of oestrus, its diameter is reduced to 1.5cm and its protrusion from the surface of the ovary is less distinct. Also, its colour changes to bright yellow. (It is after this discovery in the cow that the corpus luteum was given its name. Corpus luteum is latin for 'yellow body').
* Its consistency is dense and it becomes invaded with scar tissue.
* By the second day of dioestrus, it is reduced to ~1cm and its outline is becoming irregular.
* The colour then changes from yellow to brown.
* By the middle of dioestrus, it has shrunk to 0.5cm and its protrusion from the ovarian surface is a bit larger than a pin-head.
* As it ages, its colour goes from red to scarlet.
* Small remnants can persist for several months.
==== Size of Ovaries ====
==== Size of Ovaries ====