AI is the technique used to transfer appropriately processed semen, collected from a stallion, into the uterus of a mare at the correct time in her oestrus cycle in order to obtain a single pregnancy.
The semen can either be fresh, chilled or frozen and it can mean both stallions in the UK and abroad can be used, even semen from deceased stallions. Fresh semen is usually collected, extended and stored in an airtight, light free container for up to 8 hours at room temperature. Semen that is to be used longer than 8 hours after, but within 48 hours of collection, should be chilled to 4ºC and stored for shipping in a special container. Semen that is required to last longer than 48 hours is frozen in liquid nitrogen at a temperature of -196ºC. The success of an AI program is very dependent not only on the stallion’s semen but also on the careful veterinary management of the mare pre and post covering.
This means that the semen is placed in the uterus at the correct stage in the mare’s cycle and appropriate post insemination checks and treatments are made.