Synchronization Protocols and Compliance for Beef Cattle Reproduction

Dec 23, 2025

By Ryan Sterry

Introduction

To help farmers, veterinarians, and industry professionals make informed decisions, the Beef Cattle Reproduction Task Force reviews and publishes research-based synchronization protocol recommendations. Separate protocols are published for cows and heifers, as well as for the use of sexed semen. When selecting protocols, farmers should consider their performance goals, labor, and handling facilities. Annually updated protocols are available at https://beefrepro.org/resources/.

Estrus Synchronization Planner

An additional resource from the Beef Reproduction Task Force is the Estrus Synchronization Planner (available as a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet or a smartphone app) to assist farmers in establishing a daily program calendar for each task associated with using synchronization programs. The Estrus Synchronization Planner aims to:

Assist with planning and implementing synchronization systems
Minimize errors in the timing of injections, CIDR (controlled internal drug release) insertion, and removal, etc.
Plan labor needs
Provide analysis and comparison of the input costs of several synchronization systems

Synchronization Compliance

Farmers need to ensure protocols are followed to achieve success. When the wrong hormone is administered or the timing is incorrect, it can result in poorer ovulation responses or failed conceptions. If you discover a mistake, do not ignore it. Instead, work with your veterinarian and Artificial Insemination (AI) technician to determine if an alternative protocol could be used, or if it is best to restart the process.

Source : wisc.edu

Video: Environmental Effects on Sow Fertility - Dr. Isabela Bez

In this special episode celebrating International Women's Day of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, we bring Dr. Isabela Bez, a veterinarian and PhD student in Brazil, who explains how temperature and light regimes influence sow reproductive performance. She discusses seasonal infertility, climate adaptation, and why environmental monitoring inside barns is critical for herd efficiency. The episode highlights practical management strategies to reduce reproductive losses and improve outcomes. Listen now on all major platforms. "Environmental factors are actually very important on sow reproduction, and sometimes these are the factors that producers tend to not pay attention." Meet the guest: Dr. Isabela Bez / isabela-cristina-cola%c3%a7o-bez-1753381b0 is a veterinarian and PhD student in Animal Science at Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná (PUCPR), Brazil. Her work focuses on swine reproduction, nutrition, and animal welfare, with strong expertise in environmental effects on sow performance. She collaborates with international farms and research groups to improve reproductive efficiency through applied science.