Embryo transfer used to successfully treat repeat breeder cows

In vivo and in vitro-derived embryos were transferred non-surgically into uteri of repeat breeder cows. If conception rates were acceptable then the system could be adopted as another alternative treatment for repeat-breeder cows. The repeat-breeder cows had at least four infertile services before transfer. They were selected by a general practitioner during routine herd fertility examinations. No age restriction was imposed on the selection of cows. They were all free from cystic ovarian disease, had no anatomical abnormalities of the reproductive tract and had no abnormal genital discharge. Embryos transferred were either single in vivo-derived frozen in 10% glycerol (24 transfers) or twin in vitro-derived frozen in ethylene glycol (52 transfers). Of the total 76 transfers, 38 (50%) were diagnosed in calf at 60 days or over. This has proved to be a successful method of treating repeat breeder cows.