Pronunciation: [ˈiːstɹəs] (IPA) 
The word "oestrus" is a term used to refer to the period of sexual receptivity in female animals. It is also known as estrus. The spelling of this word is influenced by the Latin origin of the term. The IPA phonetic transcription for "oestrus" is /ˈiːstrəs/. The first vowel sound is pronounced as the "ee" sound in "meet," the second sound is "s" and the third sound is "tr" which are pronounced together followed by "uhs."
Oestrus is a noun that refers to a recurring physiological state in female mammals, typically characterized by sexual receptivity and an increase in fertility. It is a key component of the reproductive cycle in many animals, including humans.
During oestrus, the female's body undergoes various changes in response to hormones, particularly estrogen. These hormonal fluctuations lead to observable signs of oestrus, such as behavior changes, increased vocalization, and physical alterations. In some species, such as dogs and cats, there may be a noticeable swelling of the genitals.
Oestrus is a crucial time for reproduction, as it is the period in which females are most fertile and receptive to mating. Male animals are often able to detect the pheromones released during oestrus, which can attract them and signal the female's reproductive status.
The timing and duration of oestrus can vary depending on the species. Some animals experience a regular oestrus cycle, which can occur monthly or at specific intervals, while others may have an oestrus season that occurs once or twice a year.
Understanding the patterns of oestrus is important for breeding purposes, as it helps determine the optimal time for successful mating. It also plays an essential role in animal husbandry and veterinary medicine, as the detection and management of oestrus can aid in reproductive health and overall animal welfare.
Estrus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "oestrus" is derived from the Greek word "oistros" (ὄιστρος), which means "gadfly" or "sting". In ancient Greek mythology, the gadfly was associated with frenzy or madness, particularly the kind of madness observed in animals during their mating season. Over time, the term "oestrus" came to be used to describe the sexual excitement or period of receptivity experienced by female animals during their reproductive cycle. It was adapted into English and commonly used to refer to the period of sexual receptivity in animals, particularly mammals.
