Buserelin Improves Ovulation-Embryo Synchrony Compared With hCG After eCG-Induced Superovulation in Donor Sows

This study directly compares hCG and buserelin as ovulation-inducing agents following eCG-based superovulation in weaned donor sows, focusing on their practical impact on ovulation-embryo synchrony under field conditions. Fifty-five multiparous sows received 1000 IU eCG 24 h after weaning and were treated at onset of estrus with either 750 IU hCG or 10 μg BU. Embryos were recovered on Day 6 after estrus. Ovulatory response, embryo recovery, fertilization rate and viable embryo number did not differ between treatments. Embryo quality parameters were also similar. However, BU-treated sows exhibited improved ovulation-embryo synchrony, with a higher proportion of animals presenting embryos at the blastocyst stage compared with hCG-treated sows (p = 0.0051). In conclusion, BU maintains embryo yield and quality while improving ovulation-embryo synchrony compared with hCG in eCG-superovulated donor sows.