Sows are typically kept in farrowing crates from before giving birth until weaning. This restriction has been a concern, particularly during the pre-parturient ‘nest-building phase’. Earlier studies indicated that gilts (1st pregnancy) had higher stress levels if kept in crates as opposed to a farrowing pen. This study observed animals through two farrowings (gilt and sow), in either crates or pens, to determine if animals adapted to crates during their second farrowing. Seven animals were assigned to each housing condition. All crated animals changed posture during the pre-farrowing phase more often than did those in pens, but the difference was less for sows than for gilts. Nest building behaviour began earlier relative to parturition in pens than in crates, and earlier in sows than in stalls. Crated animals spent more time sitting, but less time standing, than did those in pens. Cortisol levels were measured during the second parturition (sows only), and were higher in sows in crates than in pens. However, compared to previous studies, the difference in cortisol between crated and penned sows was less than in gilts. Thus, environmental restriction as represented by farrowing crates results in more sitting, a later onset of nest-building, and a higher level of cortisol; all of which suggest a more stressful environment. However, the differences between crates and pens decreases during the second farrowing, indicating that the animals are adapting to the restricted environment.