Management factors have an important influence on the reproductive efficiency of the postpartum cow. An organized and systematic approach to reproductive management of the postpartum cow is essential. Accurate and complete recordkeeping is the first step to increasing the herd's reproductive performance. An important management-related problem facing dairy producers today is faulty heat detection. Another management-related problem the dairy producer may experience is improper artificial insemination timing or technique.
Nutrition also plays an important role in the postpartum reproductive performance of dairy cattle.
The most important nutritional factor is the overall energy balance of the animal. Both feed intake and body tissue reserves are used as energy for body functions and milk production. The requirements for energy of a cow in early lactation exceed her intake of energy, and therefore she depletes her body of energy stores. Depletion of energy stores causes the weight loss commonly observed during the first 8 weeks after calving. This publication describes the normal functions of the cow's reproductive system during and after calving.