PREGNANCY DIAGNOSIS

Pregnancy Diagnosis in Sows

Early detection of pregnancy is important to save time, feed, and management costs. If a sow fails to conceive, she usually returns to heat within 18–24 days after mating. Therefore, farmers should closely monitor animals for signs of heat (ICAR, 2016).

Methods of Pregnancy Diagnosis

• Non-return to heat (Field method)
• This is the most commonly used and practical method under field conditions. If a sow does not exhibit estrus within 18–24 days after mating, she is likely pregnant. However, this method is not 100% reliable.
• Ultrasound examination (Most accurate method)
• Pregnancy can be confirmed by a veterinarian using a portable ultrasound machine as early as 25–28 days after mating. It is quick, reliable, and widely used in modern farms.
• Physical observation
• From around 60–70 days of gestation, visible changes such as abdominal enlargement and development of firm, prominent teats can be observed.
• Rectal palpation
• Performed by a trained veterinarian, pregnancy can be detected from about 30 days onwards by examining reproductive structures.

Additional Important Points

• Hormonal testing (Progesterone test)
• Blood or milk progesterone levels can indicate pregnancy status. High progesterone after 21 days suggests pregnancy.
• Doppler ultrasound (heartbeat detection)
• Can detect fetal heartbeat and blood flow, improving accuracy in early diagnosis.
• Behavioral changes
• Pregnant sows often become calmer, less active, and show reduced interest in boars.
• Body weight gain
• Gradual increase in body weight is observed during pregnancy due to fetal growth.
• Feeding pattern changes
• Pregnant sows may show improved appetite compared to non-pregnant animals.
• Vulva changes
• Absence of swelling/redness (seen during heat) may indicate pregnancy.

Importance of Early Pregnancy Diagnosis

• Helps in rebreeding non-pregnant sows on time
• Reduces economic losses
• Improves farm efficiency and planning
• Ensures better nutritional and health management of pregnant animals