Risks and Future Fertility in Mares Undergoing Oocyte Retrieval for Assisted Reproduction

What is it about?

Transvaginal ultrasound-guided follicular aspiration (TVA) has become an essential tool in equine reproduction, helping mares produce embryos outside the body. This technique is commonly used to collect eggs (oocytes) from mares for laboratory procedures like intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), especially when traditional methods of embryo production are not suitable. Despite its effectiveness, TVA is an invasive procedure, and this review explores the potential risks and its impact on a mare's future ability to conceive.

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Photo by Juliya Sidorova on Unsplash

Photo by Juliya Sidorova on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Transvaginal Aspiration (TVA) is now a widely used technique in equine reproduction, enabling mares and stallions with fertility challenges to reproduce while also optimizing breeding efforts. However, many horse owners and veterinarians still express concerns about its safety and the potential impact on a mare’s future fertility. This review aims to address those concerns, compiling and evaluating existing studies to provide clear, evidence-based insights. As the first comprehensive review of TVA in horses, it fills a critical gap, offering guidance for more informed decisions in equine reproductive care.