1. The donor is given hormone treatment to encourage the production of multiple eggs (superovulation).
2. This is done following a prescribed programme, which is administered by the client.
3. She is then inseminated — usually twice — using semen of your choice.
4. Seven days later, embryos are collected (flushed) from the uterus.
5. Viable embryos are graded, either transferred fresh into synchronised recipients or frozen for future use.

The entire procedure — superovulation, flushing, grading, freezing, and transfer — is carried out by our veterinary-led team at VetEmbryos.ie. The flush itself takes place at our unit, and clients are required to bring the donor animal to us on the day of flushing. Insemination is performed by your own AI technician.

The donor must be inseminated 7 days before the planned flush.

1. Minimum of 2 inseminations is recommended. If using sexed semen, 3 inseminations are advised for best results.

2. Timing is critical — we will advise you precisely once a flush is booked.

Number of Donors Flushing Procedure Price per Donor (incl. VAT)

1 Donor €340.00

2 Donors €325.00

3 Donors €315.00

4 Donors €300.00

These are the per-donor prices for the flushing procedure only.

We use Pluset® for superovulation. Heifer donors typically require lower doses than cows. Specific dosage instructions are provided with each package. 

> Embryos are collected from the donor seven days after insemination and assessed under the microscope for quality and stage of development.

Depending on the programme and recipient availability, embryos are then either:

– Transferred fresh into synchronised recipient heifers on the same day, or

– Frozen for later use in our EU-licensed storage facility in Ballinlough.

All embryos are individually identified, labelled, and recorded on a written inventory provided to the client.

> Embryos are transferred either:

– Fresh: directly into synchronised recipients the same day they’re collected

– Frozen: thawed and implanted at a later date

Frozen embryo transfers are available both at our facility and on-farm by prior arrangement only. Fresh transfers are strictly in-unit.

> Frozen embryo transfer: €90 per transfer (incl. VAT)

Fresh embryo transfer: €80 per transfer (incl. VAT)

> Yes — but there are limitations:

• Implants are carried out Monday to Friday, excluding Bank Holidays

• All work takes place during standard office hours

• The recipient must be implanted 7–8 days after standing heat, so timing must be observed carefully

Natural heats will be accommodated where possible, but availability cannot always be guaranteed.

> Heifers generally offer higher conception rates than cows.

• Avoid animals with any known fertility issues.

• Do not use recipients that are overly thin or excessively fat — aim for a balanced condition score.