Don’t let improper semen storage and handling impact your farm’s reproductive performance this summer. Revisit these 8 semen management practices before the temperatures start to rise.
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Manage ordering. Use >90% of semen within three days of ordering. Every additional day of semen age can reduce total born by 0.3 pigs per litter.
![](https://www.pic.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2021/11/Semen-clip-board.png?resize=164%2C164)
Follow all biosecurity policies when bringing semen and AI supplies into facilities.
![](https://www.pic.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2021/11/Semen-storage.png?resize=519%2C164)
Store semen unpacked, horizontal and loose at 61-64°F (16-18°C) to ensure air circulation. Be sure to use oldest doses first.
![](https://www.pic.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2021/11/Semen-high-low-temps-icon.png?resize=234%2C182)
Rotate doses daily. Record high/low temperatures. Reset the min/max thermometer. Report any variance from recommendations (61-64°F / 16-18°C) to manager. Fluctuations of 1.8 degrees outside acceptable range can reduce semen dose shelf life up to 1 day.
![](https://www.pic.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2021/11/Semen-insulated-box-1.png?resize=180%2C132)
Take only necessary amount of semen into the barn. Keep semen in insulated box with 62°F (17°C) gel packs. Have enough doses for 1 hour of breeding maximum.
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Rotate semen gently prior to connecting to the catheter.
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No latex! Do not use latex gloves during semen handling or during breeding.
![](https://www.pic.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2021/11/Semen-dose-icon.png?resize=214%2C178)
Do not place semen doses warmer than 66°F (19°C) back in the semen storage unit.
![](https://www.pic.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2021/11/Semen-cooler-repair-icon.png?resize=198%2C155)
Do not place semen doses warmer than 66°F (19°C) back in the semen storage unit.