1. The period of the estrous cycle in mammals that follows estrus, characterized by the growth and activity of the corpus luteum and elevated progesterone levels.
Usage: Also spelled 'metestrum' or 'metoestrus'; Veterinary and reproductive biology term; Plural: metestrus or metestri

Examples

• During metestrus, the corpus luteum produces progesterone to prepare the uterus for potential pregnancy.
• The veterinarian explained that metestrus typically lasts several weeks in dogs.
• Hormonal changes during metestrus can affect a female mammal's behavior and physiology.
• In cattle, metestrus follows the receptive estrus phase of the reproductive cycle.
• Researchers studied progesterone levels throughout metestrus to understand fertility patterns.