At Vytelle, we want to ensure your OPU (Ovum Pick-Up) procedure goes as smoothly as possible. Whether your goal is to expand your herd with high-quality genetics or maximize embryo transfer (ET) technology, clear communication is essential for a successful collection. OPUs also offer a valuable opportunity to learn and engage with your Satellite and Vytelle team, making it an ideal time to ask questions and deepen your understanding. With the flexibility to bring in donors at any time and a quick 15-minute procedure, OPUs are both accessible and convenient.
Here’s a guide to help you prepare for your OPU day, communicate effectively, and make sure everything is in place.
1. Donor and Sire Information
First things first: we need to know the details of your donor cow and the sire. Providing the registration name, number, date of birth, and breed information for both so we can correctly identify the embryos according to IETS standards.This data also helps Vytelle support industry-leading data reporting and analytics for our clients.
Getting all this info to us in advance avoids any unnecessary delays. It’s one of those things that seems small but makes a big difference when it comes to keeping things on schedule.
2. Decide on Fresh or Frozen Embryos
One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether you want fresh or frozen embryos. This impacts how we plan for the collection and how the embryos will be handled. Here’s what to consider:
- Fresh Embryos: If you’re going with fresh embryos, timing and logistics are crucial. Make sure you communicate your desire to do fresh embryos with the Satellite early to plan out the necessary logistics. Fresh embryos need to be transferred into prepared recipients within a specific time-frame, so you’ll want to think about how far your recipients (recips) are from the lab and how you’ll get the embryos there. Make sure you’ve got the pickup time and shipping arrangements sorted out in advance, whether you’re using a courier or transporting them yourself.
- Frozen Embryos: If you choose frozen embryos, you’ll have more flexibility since they can be stored for use later. This is a good option if you want to hold onto them for a future transfer or if you need to ship them a long distance.
3. Type of Semen: Conventional, Presorted, or Reverse Sorted
Another key part of the process is deciding what type of semen you’ll be using. Each type comes with its own considerations:
- Conventional Semen: The standard option, conventional semen is widely used and represents about ⅔ of the IVF fertilizations we do. Conventional semen generally results in the highest conversion of oocytes to embryos (EDR%).
- Presorted Semen: If you’re looking to predetermine the sex of your calves (male or female), and presorted semen is available, this is your best bet for fine-tuning your herd’s genetics. Pre-sorted semen generally yields an intermediate EDR%.
- Reverse Sorted Semen: If you want a pre-determined sex of your calves and pre-sorted semen is not available, reverse-sorted semen may be an option. Using reverse-sort will require advance reservation of available slots on the sorting machine so be sure to confirm with us in advance. Reverse-sorted semen generally yields the lowest EDR%.
4. Semen Logistics: Getting the Timing Right
Check with your satellite manager or Vytelle representative to confirm semen logistics and required quantities. Timing is everything when it comes to semen handling on OPU day. The semen needs to arrive at the lab at least 24hrs prior to the OPU day.Here’s how you can make that happen:
- Bringing the Semen to the OPU: Some producers prefer to bring the semen to the OPU appointment themselves. This way, you have control over when and how it arrives. Check with your satellite manager or Vytelle representative to confirm that this is an option at your satellite location.
- Shipping the Semen to the Lab: You can have the semen shipped directly to the lab. Just make sure the shipping is well-timed and that the semen arrives prior to the day of the OPU. Proper packaging and storage are critical here to maintain semen viability.
5. Consult with Your Satellite Manager for Best Results
Don’t forget to consult with your satellite manager to ensure you get the best results possible. Satellite managers can help you know what to expect, and the Vytelle team can even offer advice on mating decisions to maximize the output of your IVF session. Whether it’s your first OPU or part of a larger program, a quick check-in with your manager helps set you up for success.
By following these guidelines, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth and successful OPU. We’re here to help you through every step, making sure your breeding program reaches its full potential. If you have any questions or want to schedule your OPU date, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Vytelle team.
With good preparation, IVF is the most accessible, reliable, and predictable way to achieve your herd’s reproductive goals!
