Estrus
Estrus
Estrus (pronounced: /ˈɛstrəs/), also known as heat, is a phase in the reproductive cycle of female mammals, excluding humans. The term originates from the Greek word "oistros", meaning "gadfly, breeze, sting, or mad impulse".
Definition
Estrus is a period of sexual receptivity in female mammals, which corresponds to the time when the female is fertile and is most likely to conceive. It is characterized by changes in behavior, physiology, and appearance, which are driven by fluctuations in reproductive hormones.
Etymology
The term "estrus" is derived from the Greek word "oistros", which can be translated as "gadfly, breeze, sting, or mad impulse". This reflects the behavioral changes often observed in animals during this period, which can include increased activity and aggression, as well as a heightened interest in males.
Related Terms
- Proestrus: The phase preceding estrus, during which the female's reproductive system prepares for fertilization.
- Metestrus: The phase following estrus, during which the corpus luteum develops if fertilization has not occurred.
- Diestrus: The phase in which the female is sexually inactive, following metestrus.
- Anestrus: The period of sexual inactivity between reproductive cycles.
- Oestrus cycle: The entire reproductive cycle, which includes proestrus, estrus, metestrus, and diestrus.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Estrus
- Wikipedia's article - Estrus
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