Sonographic determination of foetal sex

ABSTRACT

In order to determine foetal sex antenatally, 300 patients were examined sonographically over a period of two years [June 1993 - May 1995] using a 3.5 MHz sector probe. Gestational age ranged between 26 - 30 weeks. Foetal scrotum, penis and labia majora were identified to establish the foetal gender. Of 258 ladies who reported back after confinement, diagnosis was correct in 214 [82.9%]. There were 111 [43%] males and 103 [40%] females. In 44 [17%] of our cases sex could not be ascertained. Main factors contributing to unsuccessful outcome were breech presentation [38%], multiple gestation [23.8%], oligohdramnios [11.9%], and non-optimal foetal position [26.2%]. There were only two false positive results. Foetal hydrocele was noticed in three cases