Induction of parturition with prostaglandin analogs under field conditions

Abstract

During a field trial conducted on four farms, 571 sows were treated with one of three prostaglandin analogs (Suimate/I.C.I., Pronilen/Intervet, Alfaprostol/Vetem) on either day 111, 112 or 113 of pregnancy. Another 354 untreated sows served as controls. With no significant differences between analogs or dose levels of the analog Alfaprostol, parturition commenced 28.9 ± 1.4, 27.4 ± 1.3 and 23.1 ± 1.3 h ( x ± SEM ) after treatment on day 111, 112 and 113, respectively. The age of the sow, the litter size and the individual farm proved to be significant factors. Postpartal complications occurred less frequently after treatment. Pronilen and Suimate were more effective than Alfaprostol. Litter and rearing performance as well as subsequent ovarian function of the sows were similar for treatment groups and controls. Birth weight was slightly lower and the number of stillborn piglets was slightly increased in sows treated on day 111 or 112 ( P < 0.001). Post-weaning fertility was equally good for all groups.