Using Controlled Ovulation to Keep Sow Groups Together

Synchronization of ovulation to accomplish single fixed-time insemination (SFTAI) has leveraged management and superior genetics for more efficient food production from cattle and pigs. Recently, triptorelin acetate, a GnRH-agonist in a gel formulation (OvuGel®) for intravaginal delivery, has been implemented in the swine industry for the purpose of SFTAI in weaned sows. In an OvuGel® Breeding Program, OvuGel® is given to all sows at 96 hours after weaning regardless of estrus status and all OvuGel® sows are inseminated 22+/- 2 hours later. OvuGel® triggers ovulation and thus synchronizes the wean-to-ovulation interval (WOI) in a group of sows responding normally to weaning. Synchronization of the WOI provides a known and precise window of ovulation relative to weaning for insemination at an optimal fixed time. Together, control of the WOI and synchronization of ovulation in a group of weaned sows facilitate successful SFTAI in sows. Results show normal fertility for sows in estrus on day 5 post-weaning. Additionally, sows not in estrus on day 5 post-weaning have a 30% farrowing rate on average; these sows are difficult to get into a batch breed group but stay with the wean group of origin in an OvuGel® Breeding Program resulting in more sows farrowing the next litter in 120 days. Control and synchronization of ovulation provide more precise knowledge of the time of ovulation and a more accurate knowledge of gestation length. Since OvuGel® controls and synchronizes the WOI, lactation length is longer than contemporary sows, allowing for an older and potentially heavier pig at weaning. Experimentally, triptorelin gel has been successfully used to control and synchronize ovulation in gilts following withdrawal of Matrix®. Therefore, the opportunity exists to provide full control of mating and farrowing of an entire batch group for more uniform and heavier pigs at weaning. Implementation of an Ovugel® Breeding Program in a daily, weekly or monthly wean program will control and synchronize ovulation to facilitate SFTAI that results in decreased labor requirement, increased genetic leverage and increased lactation length. Furthermore, an OvuGel Breeding Program pulls into the desired breeding group sows that respond normally to weaning but have a silent estrus or are missed at estrus detection which is a significant benefit to a batch program.