Fig. 9

Schematic illustration of the critical roles of essential fatty acids on the reproduction of sows. Lactation EFA enhances uterine secretion of prostaglandin F2α, which could reduce severity and incidence of uterine disease post-partum [44, 65]. Lactation EFA enhances follicle development and growth and improves oocyte quality in cattle [44, 67]. EFA activates the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor δ (PPAR-δ), which influences the metabolism of prostaglandins and is involved in pregnancy recognition and implantation processes [44]