The effect of oxytocin treatment on the ovulation rate of Merino ewes was investigated, intravenous doses (0.1 IU) of oxytocin were administered to synchronised ewes (n = 54) every 30 min for a 24 h period beginning at the onset of oestrus. Laparoscopic examination of the ovaries of all ewes, that had displayed overt oestrus following sponge withdrawal was performed 10 d after the beginning of oxytocin treatment to determine the number of corpora lutea per ewe. The ovulation rates of the treated and control groups were 174.5% and 144%, respectively (p < 0.01). It would appear that a higher ovulation rate can be obtained by repeated low-dose intravenous injection of oxytocin during oestrus.Articl
