The conundrum of the uterine microbiome

Abstract

Our purpose is to review current information describing the reproductive tract microbiome in the mare. Defining the reproductive tract microflora in any species, including the mare, lies in the need to be able to determine the physiologic state of the microbiome in healthy patients and thereby develop a deeper understanding of the impact dysbiosis can have on reproductive health in breeding animals and overall health in all patients. It is likewise important to understand the impact of the general health of the animal on causing dysbiosis within the reproductive tract. With the background information we have, and the advancement of sequencing techniques at our disposal we continue to challenge the veterinary dogma of a ‘sterile uterus’ and shed light on several factors that impact the reproductive tract microbiome so that clinical practices can be adjusted accordingly.