MMA Syndrome in Sows: Prevention, Early Diagnosis and Integrated Treatment

What is MMA Syndrome and Why It Remains a Challenge in Pig Farms

MMA syndrome (Mastitis–Metritis–Agalactia) is a multifactorial condition mainly affecting sows in the postpartum period. It causes mammary gland inflammation, uterine infections and reduced or absent milk production, directly impacting piglet survival and growth. Despite advances in management and biosecurity, it remains a major cause of production losses due to its health and economic impact.

Factors that Predispose to MMA

MMA results from a combination of environmental, nutritional and health factors. Common ones include:

• - Poor hygiene in farrowing pens and equipment.


• - Thermal stress during farrowing.


• - Retained placenta or uterine debris.


• - Bacterial presence, mainly E. coli, Klebsiella spp. or Staphylococcus spp..


• - Insufficient water or energy intake in the immediate postpartum.

The interaction of these factors triggers inflammatory processes that affect milk secretion and sow welfare.

Symptoms and Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis helps prevent complications and reduces unnecessary antibacterial use. Main clinical signs usually appear within the first 24–48 h after farrowing:

• 1. Body temperature > 39.5 °C (103 °F).


• 2. Loss of appetite or apathetic behaviour.


• 3. Swollen, hard or reddened udder.


• 4. Restless piglets or weight loss due to lack of milk.


• 5. Abnormal vaginal discharge.

The veterinarian should assess the animal’s history, environment and welfare indicators to confirm the diagnosis.

Prevention: hygiene and management as the first line of defence

Most cases can be reduced by strict cleaning, disinfection and environmental control protocols:

• 1. Keep temperature at 18–22 °C and humidity at 60–70 %.


• 2. Avoid drafts and thermal stress.


• 3. Clean and disinfect pens, floors and drinkers after each farrowing.


• 4. Ensure continuous access to clean, fresh water.


• 5. Check udder and behaviour every 12 h during the first days.

A clean, calm environment prevents infections and supports postpartum recovery.

Treatment and Control: integrated approach under veterinary supervision

When MMA occurs, treatment should be rapid and multifactorial, combining:

• - Effective antibacterial support against the most common pathogens.


• - Anti-inflammatory and analgesic therapy for pain and fever.


• - Stimulation of milk production and stress control.


• - Hydration and nutritional support to aid recovery.

Sulfonamide–trimethoprim combinations remain a preferred choice for their broad spectrum and good field tolerance, always under veterinary prescription.

More technical info: antibacterial solutions · NSAID Ketoprocen.

Animal Welfare and Production Control: one shared strategy

Controlling MMA improves sow and piglet welfare and optimises productivity. Even with good practices, isolated cases may occur; therefore, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment under veterinary supervision —with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory support— are key to reducing the health and economic impact.

Prevention starts in daily routines, and real control comes when early detection and the right treatment work hand in hand.