Abstract: A method is provided for regulating vertebrate ovarian maturation and function using growth factors by providing an amount of epidermal growth factor to prepubertal ovaries of female vertebrate species including stimulation of primordial follicles and enhancing activation of dormant follicles with the results that the mechanics of the method regulate early development of ovarian follicles. The method provides activation of dormant follicles and early ovarian maturation which is accelerated to the point of producing earlier breeding cycles as well as increasing first litter sizes. The method for regulating vertebrate/mammal ovulation maturation is also directed to increasing the ovulation rate and increasing litter size at an age of normal breeding.