Semen shipments for artificial insemination at risk

Wide experience over the years has demonstrated the potential for damaging the sperm cells through poor temperature control at any stage of this process. For example, a rapid fall in semen temperatures has often been noted at Artificial Insemination centres where ejaculates are carried some distance between the collection point and the laboratory. Even an apparently small reduction can cause a cold shock to cells that results in warning signs such as an abnormally high percentage of curled tails among the sperm examined under the microscope.

Another observation may be a tendency for the sperm cells in the sample to group or clump together, itself possibly an indication of their sub-standard fertilising capacity. Although such clumps can occur for a variety of reasons, one that is considered especially common is an exposure of the semen to fluctuating temperatures in the course of its transportation either within the AI facility or from boar stud to farm.

Note that the amount of fluctuation does not need to be great before it is regarded as a risk to sperm quality. Many sources insist that the possibility for damage exists even where the semen has been exposed to temperatures varying by as little as 5 degrees Celsius.

Some laboratory tests undertaken recently in Sweden are worth reviewing in this context. They have supplied fresh evidence on probable semen effects if extremes of temperature occur during the transportation of the AI dose.

Source:  Semen shipments at risk