Semen collection refers to the process of obtaining semen from human males or other animals with the use of various methods, for the purposes of artificial insemination, or medical study (usually in fertility clinics). Semen can be collected via masturbation[1] (e. g., from stallions[2] and canids[3]), prostate massage, artificial vagina, penile vibratory stimulation (vibroejaculation) and electroejaculation.[4] Semen can be collected from endangered species for cryopreservation of genetic resources.[5]
Methods of semen collection from humans include:
The best specimen is produced when a short period of 3–5 days of abstinence is observed. A more prolonged period does not yield better results.[8]
The process of bovine semen collection is vital in the agricultural industry as it allows farmers to improve the genetics of their herds and increase the efficiency of their breeding programs.
For semen collection from stallions, the most common method used is an artificial vagina; after collecting semen, it is tested, diluted, then stored according to the intended use. Semen can be either liquid or frozen. There are many kinds of preservatives used in dilution with semen - most contain energy and antibiotics for liquid, and protection from freezing for frozen semen. Many studies are ongoing to improve preservation, increase liquid semen storage time, and reduce or remove bacteria from semen.[12][13][14]
In order to collect semen from a male dog, an artificial vagina is prepared,[15][16] which is a conical thin latex sleeve ending in a sterile collection tube. The inside of the latex sleeve is lightly lubricated.[17] The male is allowed to sniff a female in estrus. Experienced studs cooperate readily in the process. New studs often require encouragement in the form of manual stimulation,[18][19] also known as "manual ejaculation".[20][21] Generally the male will mount the female[failed verification], and the collector quickly directs the dog's penis into the latex sleeve. The male ejaculates and the semen is collected in the tube. The semen is then drawn up into a long thin pipette.[22][20] Prior to ejaculation, the penis is massaged inside its sheath. It is then extruded from its sheath, and the collector massages the dog's erect penis near the base of the bulbus glandis using the thumb and index finger. The dog begins pelvic thrusting movements at the onset of ejaculation.[23]
Semen can be collected from wolves via manual stimulation[24] or electroejaculation.[25][26][27]
