Stillbirth and preweaning mortality in litters of sows induced to farrow with supervision compared to litters of naturally farrowing sows with minimal supervision

Materials and methods: A total of 159 multiparous sows were assigned in approximately equal numbers to two groups. Group One sows (n = 75) were induced to farrow using two intravulvar injections of 5 mg prostaglandin F2α administered 6 hours apart on day 114 of gestation (Day 0). Farrowing was supervised, with assistance given as required. Group Two sows (n = 84) were allowed to farrow naturally, with supervision and neonatal care standard for the production facility. All live piglets were weighed at 3 days and 21 days of lactation.