Is it difficult to thaw and inseminate with frozen semen?
The actual process of thawing and inseminating frozen semen is quite simple. However one must follow specific thawing instructions precisely in order to obtain maximum post-thaw survival. This will require careful attention to detail and a temperature controlled water bath. The thawing protocol varies depending upon the size of the straw. Since the 1990s SBS has been freezing semen in 0.5mL straws, however older frozen semen may be packaged in 5mL straws. A detailed thawing protocol and printable instructions are available below: 0.5mL straws 5mL straws The equipment needed to thaw and use frozen semen is: • Accurate thermometer • Water bath • Hemostats or Tweezers • Timer or watch with second hand • Scissors • Sterile “red top” or centrifuge tube • All plastic syringe • Insemination pipette • Non spermicidal gel • Sterile insemination sleeve 0.5mL Straws: Once the perineum of the mare has been aseptically cleaned, using a pre-cooled hemostat remove the straws from the nitrogen contain
