Larger litter sizes and higher body weights in modern sows mean they must produce more milk, but also have higher maintenance requirements. In order to support maintenance and lactation the feed intake of sows should be maximized during lactation, but this can be affected by feeding regimes during other phases and by other factors during lactation. Dry sows should not be overfed and should be fed based on BCS, as overweight sows will have reduced lactation feed intake and other health issues which can lead to earlier culling. After farrowing, feed allowance should rapidly increase and sows should be fed multiple meals to allow them to eat at their leisure. Sows should be fed to appetite, which is close to ad libitum. Room temperature should be a compromise between keeping piglets warm (26-30°C) and keeping sows comfortable (12-20°C), one way is to provide heat lamps for piglets and to keep the room slightly cooler (around 20°C). Heat stress in sows can result in lower milk production, and piglets may need to be supplemented with milk or creep feed. Water availability, flow, and quality are all important to maintain sow appetite. Feed intake is also affected by the care sows receive from people, and comfort of the sow from crate, feeder, and drinker design.