Pig farming is one of the most profitable livestock businesses in Nigeria and across Africa. To succeed, every young farmer must understand the reproductive stages of pigs, especially the early stage of pregnancy and how it affects the number of piglets expected at farrowing.
In this post, you will learn how to identify the early signs of pregnancy in pigs, what to expect during gestation, and how many piglets a healthy sow can deliver.
Early Stage of Pregnancy in Pigs
The early stage of pregnancy in pigs usually covers the first 30 days after mating. During this period, the embryos begin to develop and attach to the sow’s uterus. Proper management at this stage is very important because stress, poor feeding, or infection can cause pregnancy loss.
Here are some signs that show your pig may be pregnant:
- Lack of heat signs — After mating, if your sow doesn’t come into heat again after 18–24 days, she is likely pregnant.
- Change in appetite and behavior — Pregnant pigs become calmer and may eat more or less than usual.
- Slight weight gain — You will start noticing a gradual increase in body size after 3–4 weeks.
- Swollen udder or nipples — The teats start to enlarge as the pregnancy progresses.
At this stage, young farmers should feed the sow with balanced rations, provide clean water, and avoid any stress that may affect embryo development.
Gestation Period in Pigs
The gestation period for pigs follows the 3-3-3 rule — meaning 3 months, 3 weeks, and 3 days (about 114 days). This is the total duration from conception to delivery (farrowing). During this time, farmers should ensure good housing, hygiene, and nutrition.
Number of Piglets Expected per Sow
A healthy sow can give birth to between 8 to 14 piglets per farrowing, depending on factors like:
- Breed type (Large White and Landrace breeds often produce more piglets)
- Nutrition and feeding quality
- Age and health of the sow
- Proper mating management
First-time mothers (gilts) may produce fewer piglets (around 6–8), but the number increases with subsequent litters as the sow matures.
Care Tips for Pregnant Pigs
To get the best results, young farmers should:
- Feed pregnant sows with energy-rich and protein-balanced feed.
- Keep the environment clean and stress-free.
- Provide regular veterinary checkups.
- Prepare a comfortable farrowing pen before the sow gives birth.
Conclusion
Understanding the early stage of pregnancy in pigs helps farmers plan better for feeding, housing, and health management. A well-cared-for sow can deliver healthy piglets, ensuring higher productivity and profit for your farm.
