Reproductive behaviour and semen characteristics in experimental hypothyroidism in goats

Hypothyroidism was induced in goats using thiourea as the goitrogen for 90 days and the reproductive behaviour and semen characteristics were studied. The reversability of the changes was also observed for 90 days on discontinuation of treatment with thiourea. Loss of libido in males and anoestrum in females were the important clinical features observed in hypothyroid animals. There was a decrease in ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, motility and viability with an increased incidence of abnormal spermatozoa. There was significant improvement in the quality and quantity of semen when the animal became euthyroid after withdrawal of thiourea.