Will you be using sexed semen this year?
Sexed semen usage has been on an upward trajectory of the last number of years, with approximately 400,000 sexed semen straws used in 2025. That is according to Teagasc, who also stated that there was 300,000 sexed semen straws used in 2024. With a 400% increase in usage since 2021, the question remains, will you […] The post Will you be using sexed semen this year? appeared first on Agriland.ie .
The use of sexed semen in Irish dairy farming has been on the rise in recent years, with significant growth reported by Teagasc, the national agricultural and food development agency. According to their data, the number of sexed semen straws used in 2025 reached approximately 400,000, a stark contrast to the 300,000 recorded in 2024. This represents a staggering 400% increase in usage since 2021, raising questions about its future adoption among farmers.
During Teagasc's recent webinar, "Countdown to Breeding 2026," hosted by dairy specialist Stuart Childs, Dr. Stephen Butler discussed maximizing success with sexed semen. Butler presented figures on pregnancy rates at first serve for both conventional and sexed semen over the past few years. In 2022, conventional semen had a 55.7% pregnancy rate, which increased to 56.6% in 2023 and 58.6% in 2024. For sexed semen, the rates were 51.1% in 2022, 49.0% in 2023, and 54.6% in 2024.
While conventional semen currently leads in pregnancy rates, Butler noted that the gap between the two methods is relatively small and consistent. He emphasized that by implementing the right management techniques, such as synchronization, dairy farmers can achieve better success with sexed semen. Many herd owners have already experienced this improved success, highlighting the potential benefits of using sexed semen.
Butler also stressed the importance of selecting the right cows for sexed semen use. He recommended that sexed semen should only be used on the top 50% of the herd in terms of the Economic Breeding Index (EBI). These cows should display strong signs of heat at insemination and meet specific targets, such as target weight. Nominated cows should have a parity of 1 to 4, be in milk for at least 50 days at first service, have a body condition score (BCS) greater than 3, cycle regularly, and have no health or fertility issues. Heifers not meeting these criteria should not be considered suitable for sexed semen.
Once suitable heifers have been identified, farmers should use a bull team that is appropriate for their herd size to minimize genetic and fertility risks. Proper handling and management of the selected cows are crucial for maximizing the benefits of sexed semen.
As the demand for sexed semen continues to grow, it remains to be seen how many farmers will adopt this method in 2026. With the potential for improved success rates and better management techniques, sexed semen could become an increasingly popular choice among Irish dairy farmers. However, the decision to use sexed semen will ultimately depend on factors such as herd management strategies, economic considerations, and the specific needs of individual farms.
In conclusion, the rapid increase in sexed semen usage in Ireland since 2021 highlights its growing popularity among dairy farmers. While conventional semen currently has a slight edge in pregnancy rates, the potential benefits of sexed semen, combined with the right management practices, make it a viable option for many herd owners. As farmers continue to explore new methods for improving their dairy operations, the adoption of sexed semen in 2026 will likely depend on a range of factors, including herd-specific requirements and overall economic viability.
