AI Problem Solving

 

Problem

Solution

The sow will not stand still during the insemination process

She is not in 'standing oestrus'.  If she is in oestrus but not standing, remove from boar contact and retry one hour later, with another boar

The semen does not flow freely

Withdraw the catheter slightly as its end may be against the wall of the cervix

Remove the catheter and check the hole in the end

There is excessive leak back of semen out of the vulva while inseminating

The inseminator may be trying to proceed too quickly

The sow may not be on heat properly

The sow may not have been stimulated properly

The catheter may not be in far enough

The catheter does not lock properly

In older sows the cervix is too relaxed and dilated. A catheter with a bulbous end may be useful

Urine pours out of the end of the catheter

Accidental catherisation of the bladder.  Urine will harm the sperm cells so a fresh catheter should be used.  Inject the sow with a single injection of a suitable antibiotic

The sow has urinated while inseminating

Do not stop the insemination and do not remove the catheter until the insemination has finished.  Record the incident

The sow has an abnormal vulval discharge

Record on the insemination sheet,  If noted prior to insemination do not inseminate.  If you must mate the sow use a boar and then treat his sheath with an antibiotic.  Now change gloves and wash your hands

It is the weekend and I have not done any AI before

Do not start now.  Mate with a boar.  Enrol on a course of tuition

I am having problems with the insemination technique

Mate with a boar and discuss your problems with your veterinarian or an AI centre