A practical review of assisted reproductive techniques in cattle. Part 1: ovarian superstimulation and ovum pick-up

  • Rory Nevard Sydney School of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
  • Rob Simmons Paragon Veterinary Group, Dalston, Cumbria, United Kingdom; and L’Alliance Boviteq Inc, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada
DOI: https://doi.org/10.58292/CT.v18.14224
Keywords: Assisted reproductive technology, cattle, ovarian superstimulaton, ovum pick up

Abstract

In vitro embryo production is now widely used in many cattle production systems worldwide. Currently, competent personnel are required to perform specialized procedures in the live animal for the harvest and transfer of genetic material. Ovum pick up (OPU) via transvaginal ultrasound-guided follicular aspiration has become the primary means of acquiring oocytes from antral follicles that are subsequently matured, fertilized and cultured in vitro prior to transfer into a recipient female. The number of oocytes recovered during OPU is directly proportional to antral follicle count that is inherent to the individual animal and breed. Superstimulation with exogenous gonadotropins before OPU has increased the quality and developmental competence of oocytes in most embryo production systems. This practical review examines techniques employed for donor selection, ovarian superstimulation, donor preparation, required equipment, the aspiration procedure, and expected recovery rates.

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Published
2026-08-07
How to Cite
Nevard , R., & Simmons , R. (2026). A practical review of assisted reproductive techniques in cattle. Part 1: ovarian superstimulation and ovum pick-up. Clinical Theriogenology, 18. https://doi.org/10.58292/CT.v18.14224
Issue
Vol. 18 (2026): Special Issue: Advances and Clinical Applications of Embryo Transfer and Assisted Reproductive Technologies in Domestic and Exotic Animals
Section
Review Reports
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