Increase in backfat reduces the thickness of the uterus prepartum

S. Björkman, C. Oliviero, N.M. Soede, O. Peltoniemi

Research output: Contribution to conferenceAbstract

Abstract

High backfat values and large litter size can increase the farrowing duration of sows. Both are believed to interfere withinitiation of farrowing(about 24-36 hours before birth of the first piglet)and/or the expulsion of the piglets.It has been discussed if there might be,in sows with high backfat values,a prolonged decline of progesterone before farrowing, therefore delaying subsequent hormonal changes necessary for farrowing,orincreased adipose tissue around the birth canal, thereby reducing the diameter of the birth canal. The aim of the study was to investigate if litter size or backfat may already exert a negative effect on the uterus before initiation of farrowing which may explain the subsequent prolonged farrowing. It is known from other species, e.g., cattle and dog, that fatty infiltration or overstretching of the uterus due to large litter can impair the expulsive force and therefore cause dystocia and prolonged parturition. Thus, the hypothesis is that increased backfat and litter size negatively correlate with prepartum uterine thickness, representing stretching of the uterus.
Original languageEnglish
Pages36
Publication statusPublished - 2017
Event10th International Conference on Pig Reproduction - University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States
Duration: 11 Jun 201714 Jun 2017

Conference/symposium

Conference/symposium10th International Conference on Pig Reproduction
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityColumbia, Missouri
Period11/06/1714/06/17

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