VGO 511: Veterinary Andrology and Reproductive Techniques (1+1)

Scrotal circumference (SC)

SCROTAL CIRCUMFERENCE

Scrotal circumference is an indirect measure of testicular mass. It is associated with sperm production & with parenchymal health of the testicular tissues. It is an indicator of a bull's potential to produce semen. Scrotal circumference, testis size and semen production are highly correlated, especially in young bulls. Scrotal circumference is highly correlated with the semen production capacity of young bulls. Scrotal circumference measurements should be made at the time the testes are palpated on physical examination. Bulls with large scrotal circumference have more semen, a higher prevalence of normal spermatozoa, and increased sperm motility than those with small testes. We can classify a bull as having very good, good or fair scrotal circumference. Scrotal circumference is measured by using a specially made tape, scrotal measuring tape. The measurement is taken in centimeter. Scrotal circumference is easily measured by a specially made metal tape called as scrotal measuring tape. In this tape the measurements are printed in centimeter. The circumference is measured at the widest point of the scrotum. Scrotal circumference is measured at the centre of the scrotum which is the widest point. Scrotal circumference is easy to measure and is a highly repeatable measurement. To measure scrotal circumference, the testes are pulled firmly in to the lower part of the scrotum by encircling its base with the hand and pulling down on the testes. The thumb and fingers should be located on the side of the scrotum rather than the front to prevent separation of the testes which results in inaccurate measurements.The scrotal tape is formed in to a loop and slipped upward around the scrotum then tightened snugly around its greatest diameter. SC measurements taken in this manner is highly repeatable. Special care to be taken when weather is cold to pull the testes down in to the scrotum, otherwise results in faulty measurements.