What does the term 'barren' refer to in regards to a mare?

The term 'barren' specifically refers to a mare that has been bred but is not pregnant. This condition indicates that, despite attempts to mate or artificially inseminate the mare, she has not conceived and is therefore not carrying a developing foal. Understanding this terminology is important for breeders and horse owners, as it directly affects breeding plans and decisions.

In this context, if a mare is barren, it suggests potential issues with either the mare’s reproductive health or the breeding process itself, prompting a need for further evaluation or veterinary intervention. This distinguishes it from a mare that has lost a foal, a mare that has never been bred, or a mare that is pregnant with twins, each of which describes different reproductive states that do not align with the definition of being barren.