OPU and ICSI | Equibreed

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OPU & ICSI

Advanced reproductive technology for elite mares with fertility challenges.

When traditional breeding methods aren’t successful or suitable, Equibreed offers innovative reproductive solutions with Ovum Pick-Up (OPU) and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). These highly specialised techniques enable mares with fertility difficulties or those unable to carry a pregnancy to produce foals using their own genetics.

Ovum Pick-Up (OPU): A minimally invasive procedure where eggs (oocytes) are collected directly from the mare’s ovaries using ultrasound-guided follicle aspiration.
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): In the laboratory, a single sperm is injected directly into each collected egg to fertilise it. The fertilised eggs (embryos) are then cultured before being transferred into a recipient mare.

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Amber and I have worked together for a few years and have done ICSI with her and produced multiple foals. She is a strong filly and we are really pleased.
CHARLOTTE BAKER

Why Choose OPU & ICSI?

Overcome fertility problems: Ideal for mares with poor oocyte quality, chronic uterine issues, or those who have failed traditional AI or ET cycles.
Breed mares unable to carry foals: Perfect for mares with health or physical conditions preventing pregnancy.
Maximise genetic potential: Multiple eggs can be collected and fertilised per cycle, increasing the chances of producing foals.
Use of frozen or low-quality semen: ICSI allows fertilisation even with limited or frozen stallion semen where conventional methods fail.
Breed from valuable or older mares: Gives an option to preserve genetics from mares that might otherwise be unable to reproduce naturally.

What to Expect from the OPU & ICSI Process

Mare Assessment and Preparation
We start with a thorough reproductive evaluation and plan the timing of the OPU procedure carefully.
Ovum Collection (OPU)
Under sedation, eggs are collected via ultrasound-guided aspiration - a quick, minimally invasive procedure performed at our clinic.
Laboratory Fertilisation (ICSI)
In our specialist lab, a single sperm is injected into each egg, and embryos are cultured and monitored.
Embryo Transfer
Once embryos reach the appropriate stage, they are transferred into a synchronised recipient mare for pregnancy development.
Follow-Up Care
We monitor the recipient mare closely and provide updates throughout the early pregnancy stages.

Why Choose Equibreed for OPU & ICSI?

At Equibreed, we are proud to be one of the leading centres in the UK offering OPU and ICSI for mares with complex reproductive needs. Our team combines veterinary excellence with advanced laboratory capabilities, ensuring every stage of the process is handled with precision, care, and the highest standards of welfare.
We have helped owners preserve the genetics of once-in-a-lifetime mares, support breeding in mares with long-standing fertility challenges, and achieve pregnancies using only a few precious straws of stallion semen. Our calm setting, skilled team, and personalised approach set us apart.
If you are considering OPU and ICSI, we are here to guide you and your mare with expert support, clear communication, and complete care.

Frequently Asked Questions about OPU & ICSI

Q1: Is the OPU procedure painful for my mare?
A: No, OPU is a minimally invasive procedure performed under sedation. Most mares tolerate it very well and recover quickly with minimal discomfort.

Q2: How many eggs can typically be collected during one OPU session?
A: The number of eggs varies by mare but usually ranges from 5 to 15 per session. This depends on the mare’s age, reproductive health, and ovarian response.

Q3: Can frozen or low-quality semen be used with ICSI?
A: Yes. One of the advantages of ICSI is that it can fertilise eggs using very limited, frozen, or poor-quality semen that wouldn’t work well with conventional breeding methods.

Q4: How soon after OPU can the mare undergo another procedure?
A: Many mares can undergo repeat OPU sessions every 2 to 3 weeks, allowing multiple attempts within one breeding season to maximise embryo production.

Q5: What are the success rates for OPU & ICSI compared to traditional breeding?
A: Success rates vary depending on the mare and semen used, but OPU & ICSI offer a valuable option for mares with fertility issues where traditional methods have failed. Our team will provide personalised success expectations based on your mare’s circumstances.