Effects of Melatonin and Vaginal Sponges Plus eCG on Reproductive Performance in Iraqi Goat

Abstract

Background: Reproductive management in goats is essential for optimizing productivity and enhancing breeding efficiency, especially in regions with high demand for livestock products. Hormonal treatments, such as subcutaneous melatonin implants and intra-vaginal sponges combined with equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG), have been widely studied for their potential to improve estrus synchronization and fertility outcomes in small ruminants. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of these treatments on the reproductive performance of Iraqi goats. Methods: The experiment involved 21 goats, aged 8–10 months, and three fertile bucks. The goats were randomly allocated into three groups. Group 1 received melatonin implants subcutaneously for 30 days, Group 2 was treated with intra-vaginal sponges for 12 days followed by an eCG injection at sponge removal, and Group 3 served as the untreated control. Results: The results indicated that G2 exhibited a significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) estrus response and estrus duration compared to G1 and G3. Moreover, G2 recorded the longest (P < 0.01) estrous phase, while G1 showed intermediate values, and G3 had the shortest. Conception rates were significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) in G2 compared to the other groups. Male offspring were more prevalent (P ≤ 0.05) than female offspring across all groups, with no significant differences observed in viability rates or the nature of parturition. In terms of hormonal analysis, no significant differences were detected in serum progesterone concentrations at Day 0. However, during the estrus and luteal phases, G3 exhibited higher progesterone levels compared to G1 and G2. Serum IGF-1 levels were significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) in G2 during the estrus phase compared to G3, with no significant differences observed during the luteal phase. Conclusion: In conclusion, intra-vaginal sponges combined with eCG are highly effective for improving estrus induction, pregnancy rates, and reproductive performance in Iraqi goats, providing a practical and cost-effective solution for livestock breeders