Estrous Cycle: The period of cyclic physiological and behavior changes in non-primate female mammals that exhibit ESTRUS. The estrous cycle generally consists of 4 or 5 distinct periods corresponding to the endocrine status (PROESTRUS, ESTRUS, METESTRUS, DIESTRUS, and ANESTRUS).

Terms Related to Estrous Cycle

• Diestrus

  A phase of the ESTROUS CYCLES that follows METESTRUS. Diestrus is a period of sexual quiescence separating phases of ESTRUS in polyestrous animals.

• Estrus

  The period in the ESTROUS CYCLE associated with maximum sexual receptivity and fertility in non-primate female mammals.

• Proestrus

  A phase of the ESTROUS CYCLE that precedes ESTRUS. During proestrus, the Graafian follicles undergo maturation.

• Estrus Synchronization

  Occurrence or induction of ESTRUS in all of the females in a group at the same time, applies only to non-primate mammals with ESTROUS CYCLE.

• Anestrus

  A state of sexual inactivity in female animals exhibiting no ESTROUS CYCLE. Causes of anestrus include pregnancy, presence of offspring, season, stress, and pathology.

• Metestrus

  The period following ESTRUS during which the phenomena of estrus subside in those animals in which pregnancy or pseudopregnancy does not occur.

• Estrus Detection

  Methods for recognizing the state of ESTRUS.

• Cheyne Stokes Respiration

  An abnormal pattern of breathing characterized by alternating periods of apnea and deep, rapid breathing. The cycle begins with slow, shallow breaths that gradually increase ...

• Luteal Phase Menstrual Cycle

  The period of the menstrual cycle that begins with ovulation and ends with menstruation.

• Follicular Phase Menstrual Cycle

  The period of the menstrual cycle that begins with menstruation and ends with ovulation.