Embryo transfer has become a widely used technique for the more rapid dissemination of valuable genetic traits in cattle. The rapid uptake of embryo transfer technology by the cattle breeding industry has largely resulted from the development of non-surgical methods for the recovery of embryos from donor cows and for their subsequent implantation into recipient animals. These non-surgical methods not only reduce operative time but permit the repeated use of cows without the risk of formation of post-operative adhesions.

Although embryo transfer is a technique commonly used by research workers in the study of certain aspects of reproductive physiology in sheep, there are several problems associated with conventional transfer procedures in this species which have precluded its adoption by the sheep breeding industry.