The estrous cycle, also known as the reproductive cycle, pertains to the cyclical changes that occur in female mammals for the purpose of sexual reproduction. There are several synonyms for this term, including sexual cycle, menstrual cycle, heat cycle, and breeding cycle. Other related terms include proestrous (the period before ovulation), estrus (the actual period of sexual receptivity), and diestrous (the period after ovulation). In veterinary medicine, the estrous cycle is an important aspect of animal reproduction and is used to determine the optimal time for mating, artificial insemination, and hormonal treatments. Understanding the different terms associated with the estrous cycle is crucial for reproductive management and successful breeding outcomes.