CONCLUSION

Cows with subclinical endometritis exhibited greater uterine inflammation, as indicated by higher PMN percentages, and had a lower recovery rate than cows with suspected endometritis. This more severe uterine inflammatory status was accompanied by higher NEFAs, BHB, Hp, PGFM, and cortisol concentrations, together with lower Ca and albumin concentrations. These alterations were also reflected in poorer reproductive performance, including weaker estrus intensity, greater SC, and prolonged DO. Although several metabolic, biochemical, inflammatory, and hormonal parameters were associated with reproductive outcomes, Hp showed the strongest correlations with estrus intensity, SC, and DO.

These findings indicate that systemic inflammation is closely linked to delayed uterine recovery and reduced reproductive efficiency in FH dairy cows. The combined assessment of endometrial cytology and circulating Hp may therefore provide a useful approach for identifying cows at increased risk of persistent uterine inflammation and poor reproductive performance. Overall, Hp appears to be a promising biomarker for reproductive monitoring under tropical dairy production conditions; however, larger studies and independent validation are required before its routine application in herd-level decision-making.