Factors affecting fertility with artificial insemination.

Man's intervention in the natural processes of reproduction with the use of AI has allowed rapid genetic improvement in beef and dairy herds and has resulted in a marked increase in livestock productivity. In today's tough economic climate, high reproductive efficiency is of utmost importance for livestock enterprises to remain viable. Many factors affect the success of AI programs; of particular importance are the health and nutritional management of the herd and accurate, efficient heat detection. Good management combined with knowledge, technical expertise and careful attention to detail in the timing of insemination in relation to the period of estrus, semen handling, and correct semen placement in the uterus ensure the successful use of AI.