Processing
semen
Semen
Processing
|
Semen
pre-dilution |
|
|
1 |
Sperm within
the semen collection cup is delivered to the lab. If the outside of the cup is clean proceed
to 2 |
|
1a |
Collection cup
submitted dirty |
|
|
If very dirty pour
the semen into a clean collection cup and immediately dispose of the dirty
collection cup. Wash
you hands. Discuss collection techniques with the
technician |
|
2 |
Check boar number and record collection details |
|
3 |
Smell the semen
(normal semen should
have no smell) |
|
4 |
Place semen
collection flask onto weigh balance.
The difference between the collection flask without semen and the new
weight is noted |
|
5 |
Place one drop of
undiluted semen onto a warmed (35C) glass microscope slide and observe the
motility at 200x only.
Record the motility score (0-5 for example). Read the population of sperm, ignore individuals.
Ideally read this within 30 seconds of the semen entering the lab |
|
6 |
Observe the
semen density appearance or measure using a colorimeter (large labs). Record the result |
|
Mixing of
semen |
|
|
7 |
Mix the
ejaculate with required volume of semen diluent which has been warmed in the water
bath/warmer to 35°C. Gently mix the
ejaculate (2 times) |
|
8 |
Semen diluent
volume must be more
than 4x the ejaculate volume and
unless a colorimeter is used no more than 15x the ejaculate volume. As a general
rule it is perfectly safe to mix one ejaculate with 1.5 litres of BTS diluent |
|
9 |
If pooled semen
is required, place diluted semen and container back into the water bath/water
at 35°C |
|
10 |
Once all semen
added to the diluent, securely place dispensing tap onto container |
|
11 |
Prepare one
test bottle and label with a T, boar identity and date |
|
12 |
Using the test
bottle place one drop of diluted semen onto a warmed 35C glass microscope
slide and observe the motility Again
only view at 200x, not examine the population of sperm not individuals. Record the motility score (0-5) |
|
13 |
If immediate
dispensing is not required place the diluted semen and container into the semen thermo-cabinet at 17°C |
|
14 |
Wash down the
work surfaces in preparation of next semen sample |