Artificial insemination in pigs has become a key advancement in modern pig production, allowing producers to optimize production costs while meeting the growing global demand for pork.
Artificial insemination catheters for pigs must be designed in accordance with the reproductive physiology of the sow. Using an unsuitable catheter can negatively affect reproductive efficiency and compromise animal welfare.
Why the catheter is critical in pig artificial insemination
During artificial insemination, the catheter is the device that allows semen to be safely and effectively deposited into the sow’s reproductive tract. Poor catheter design or inadequate adaptation to the cervical anatomy can reduce insemination efficiency and compromise animal welfare.Poor adaptation can cause:
- Increased semen reflux
- Difficulty during insertion
- Less effective use of the dose
- Risk of injury or discomfort for the animal
Choosing the right catheter must be based on technical and anatomical criteria.
Artificial insemination catheters and sow reproductive anatomy
Sow anatomy and AI varies by parity, age and genetics and genetic background. A catheter that does not respect this anatomy may compromise fixation, semen deposition and overall insemination success.
Designing catheters that adapt properly to the cervix is essential to ensure smooth insertion, correct anchorage and effective semen delivery while minimizing stress for the animal.
Types of catheters used in traditional pig artificial insemination
In traditional artificial insemination, the catheter is introduced up to the cervix, where the semen dose is deposited. Two main types of catheters are commonly used in this technique.
Foam catheter
Foam catheters are designed to adapt to the sow cervix through controlled expansion. This expansion helps reduce semen reflux, one of the main factors that can negatively affect insemination efficiency.
Foam volume and density are critical parameters, as they must allow:
- Proper adaptation to cervical anatomy
- Stable anchorage during insemination
- Maintenance of catheter position throughout the process
A correctly dimensioned foam facilitates controlled semen deposition and improves dose utilization.
Spiral catheter
The spiral catheter is inspired by the shape of the boar glans, allowing it to anchor effectively within the cervix. This design promotes secure fixation and provides greater cervical stimulation during insemination.
- Spiral catheters mainly differ in:
- Number of spiral turns
- Material hardness
These characteristics influence cervical adaptation, ease of handling and user preference during reproductive management.
Foam vs spiral catheter: key differences
The spiral catheter offers stronger anchorage and greater cervical stimulation, while the foam catheter provides better anatomical adaptation, helping to reduce trauma and semen reflux through expansion.
The choice between foam and spiral catheters depends on user preference and specific herd management needs. In both cases, the objective is the same: to deposit semen efficiently in the sow reproductive tract while minimizing losses. The spiral catheter is generally considered more stimulating, while the foam catheter is more adaptive and easier to use.
Key features of a safe and effective insemination catheter
Regardless of catheter type, several key features must be considered to ensure a safe and efficient insemination process.
Foam volume and expansion
In foam catheters, foam volume is essential to achieve optimal cervical expansion and reduce semen reflux. The foam must adapt to the cervix and remain stable throughout insemination.
Outlet size and semen flow
The size of the outlet opening directly affects semen flow rate. A large outlet may cause semen to flow too quickly, increasing the risk of reflux.
In traditional artificial insemination, semen should be administered gradually, respecting the sow’s natural absorption rhythm.
Materials and quality control
Catheters must be manufactured using materials that comply with strict quality and safety standards. Proper material selection helps ensure durability, hygiene and animal safety during use.
Adaptation to sow physiology
Not all sows have the same reproductive anatomy. Differences exist between:
- Nulliparous sows
- Multiparous sows
- Different genetic lines and breeds
For this reason, catheters should be designed to accommodate these anatomical variations, ensuring smooth insertion and effective insemination.
Specific adaptations improve handling, reduce stress and contribute to better reproductive outcomes.
How to choose the right catheter for pig insemination
Choosing the appropriate catheter is a decisive factor in achieving optimal reproductive results. Catheters designed according to sow physiology, manufactured with suitable materials and adapted to different parity groups help reduce semen reflux, improve insemination efficiency and protect animal welfare.
Selecting the right catheter supports better reproductive performance and contributes to more efficient and sustainable pig production systems.
