Process of AI using Artificial Vagina method
- Semen Collection from the Bull:
– A sexually mature and healthy bull is selected for semen collection.
– The bull is trained to mount a dummy or a teaser animal (a cow in heat) in a controlled environment.
– As the bull mounts, an artificial vagina is attached to its penis. The artificial vagina mimics the cow’s reproductive tract and collects the ejaculated semen.
- Semen Evaluation:
– The collected semen is immediately evaluated for quality, including factors like sperm count, motility (movement), and morphology (shape and structure of sperm).
– Only high-quality semen meeting specific criteria is used for artificial insemination.
- Cow Preparation:
– The cow intended for insemination is closely monitored for signs of estrus (heat), which is the period when she is fertile and ready for breeding.
– Hormonal synchronization techniques might be used to ensure that the cow’s reproductive cycle aligns with the availability of quality semen.
- Insemination:
– On the day of insemination, the cow is restrained in a chute or suitable restraining device to ensure safety for both the animal and the inseminator.
– The inseminator wears appropriate protective gear to maintain hygiene and prevent the introduction of infections.
– The collected and evaluated semen is thawed (if it was previously frozen) and loaded into a sterile insemination gun.
– A lubricated insemination rod is inserted through the cow’s cervix into the uterus. The semen is then deposited into the uterine body.
- Post-Insemination Care:
– After insemination, the cow is often kept in a quiet and stress-free environment for a certain period.
– Some farms employ techniques such as timed artificial insemination (TAI), where insemination is carried out at a predetermined time in relation to the cow’s estrus cycle.
- Pregnancy Detection:
– Veterinarians or experienced personnel perform pregnancy diagnosis after a certain period (usually around 28-35 days) post-insemination.
– Techniques such as rectal palpation, ultrasonography, or blood tests are used to determine whether the cow is pregnant.
