Ovarian cysts.........75% of sows will suffer from ovarian cysts in their lifetime. Some owners never know their sows have cysts.

Some are are painless and cause no symptoms. Cysts contain a clear serous fluid - (there is evidence of some cysts containing 250-300ml of fluid), and there are a percentage of cysts that will cause pain and possibly serious health issues.

There is research indicating that cyst size and prevalence is higher in sows that have previously experienc ... ed pregnancy. (However, there are sows who experience ovarian cysts that have never been pregnant) Testosterone and oestrogen have been shown to induce cysts within the guinea pig ovaries (Silva et al, 1997). During the later stages of pregnancy, serum oestrogen levels rise and can remain elevated for approximately 10-15 days (Challis et al, 1971). Ucenter Dress mother of the bride wears in coral

Ovari-ohysterectomy or percutaneous needle aspiration (fluid is taken out via needle) are proposed as appropriate treatments (Richardson, 2000). There are also cases of hormone treatment that have been proven to managed the cysts well.

Credit and thanks to The Wheelhouse Veterinary Centre for sharing this photo of Domino ( 5years, 1 month) who had 2 ovarian cysts removed. She recovered well.

Symptoms of Ovarian cysts can range from:

1/ symmetrical alopecia (hair loss around midriff),
2/ fat tummy,
3/ crusty nipples,
4/ tender tummy,
5/ continual humping, dominance & aggression with other pigs,
6/ bleeding