Acupuncture in equine reproductive disorders (Review)

Abstract

The seasonality of matings, in most species, is dependent on the duration of pregnancy. The equine pregnancy with the next one year, the coverage and the birth of foals happen in the spring and summer period of the year that offers better environmental conditions for species survival (food availability, temperature, light, etc.). The beginning of pregnancy in any species, and in particular in the equine, is marked by several events. During this period the uterus and the ovaries of the mare, and the embryo undergo several changes, adapting to the new conditions. Among these modifications can mention the change of serum estrogens and progestins. Acupuncture is one of the oldest medical treatment methods. The practice of veterinary acupuncture is probably as old as human. In fact, the field of veterinary acupuncture began with the treatment of horses, because of their importance in wars and agriculture -based economy. The stimulation by needles at certain points, such as Bai Hui and VG2 are historically associated with reproduction and knowingly alters plasma levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol, progesterone and testosterone. According to the ERM reproductive functions dependent on a cooperative complex functions involving internal organs, Qi -Xue, meridians, specifically of the reproductive organs.