Help to Reduce Infertility Risk

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Managing Pig Health: A Reference for the Farm - 2nd Edition

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Help to Reduce Infertility Risk

04 September 2012

UK - Sows and gilts that are served from mid-September to late October may suffer from infertility problems including delayed oestrus, increased returns and abortions.

Predisposing factors include sows being weaned in poorer conditions, warm days, cool nights and decreasing day lengths. There are some things you can do to minimise the risk:

Minimise draughts and ensure any cracks in ceilings and around doors are sealed
Increase the amount of bedding being used
Feed sows and gilts to body condition
Re-instate the winter feed curve
Provide 14 to 16 hours of light per day, of a minimum of 200 lux, from the beginning of August. Install a light timer, consider introducing more lights into dark houses and wash existing bulbs. Whitewashing walls/tents will also reflect light
Provide more physical boar contact pre- and post-service to provide ongoing support for the maintenance of pregnancy and to detect cycling sows.

Click here for more on solving Autumn reproductive problems.

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