Changes in progesterone (P4), 17 beta-estradiol (E2) and 11-hydroxycorticosteroid (11-OHCS) concentrations in blood plasma were determined in daily intervals from the day of parturition to day 15 post partum (p.p.) in cows with physiological puerperium (n = 8), with puerperal endometritis (n = 6), and with placenta retention (n = 6). Cows with puerperium disorders (endometritis, placenta retention) had significantly higher P4 levels in the period from day 3 to day 7 p.p. than cows with physiological puerperium. E2 concentrations decreased to basal values following the parturition in cows with spontaneous parturitions and subsequent expulsion of the placenta. A delayed decrease in E2 concentrations after parturition and a significant increase on day 5 and day 7 p.p. were recorded in the group of animals with placenta retention. Significantly higher levels of 11-OHCS in blood plasma were detected by day 5 or by day 8 p.p. in cows with placenta retention and puerperal endometritis. Extraovarial sources of sexual steroids resulting in endocrine malfunctions are discussed as well as likely consequences for puerperium.