Sensitivity and Specificity of Commercially Available Cowside Milk Progesterone Tests

Abstract

The levels of progesterone in milk have been determined to accurately reflect the secretory activity of the corpus luteum in the cow. As an adjunct to rectal palpation the measurement of progesterone may be used to aid the diagnosis of reproductive abnormalities, pregnancy or return to estrus. Commercial kits utilizing the rapid enzyme-immunoassay (EIA) technique are being produced, which will allow veterinarians and producers to test milk progesterone levels at "cowside."