Effects of a preovulatory administered depot gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist on reproductive hormone levels and pregnancy outcome in gilts

The present study aimed to explore the influence of a preovulatory administered depot gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist (GnRHa; Decapeptyl (R) Depot) on the endocrine parameters and pregnancy outcome of gilts (n = 6). A GnRHa-supported preovulatory luteinising hormone (LH) surge was detected in all treated gilts. LH pulses were abolished completely by depot GnRHa on Day 7 and partly on Day 21 of pregnancy. In this treatment group (n = 6) four gilts were pregnant at slaughter on Day 28. In the control group receiving Gonavet (R), a non-formulated GnRHa (n = 6), all pigs showed LH pulses and were pregnant at slaughter on Day 28 of gestation. Mean progesterone concentrations were elevated in controls during the early luteal phase and were similar for both groups during the implantation period. Mean concentration of unoccupied progesterone receptor was significantly higher in uterine myometrium than in endometrium, but without treatment effects. Peripheral estrone sulfate concentrations showed a similar increase in all pregnant gilts on Days 17 and 18, and remained elevated. In summary, treatment with a depot GnRHa for synchronisation of ovulation alters pulsatile LH secretion during early pregnancy in pigs. In general, this alteration seems not to exert an injurious influence on luteal function and, therefore, on embryo and early fetal development.