Early pregnancy diagnosis in the rabbit by real time ultrasonography

Abstract

An ultrasonographic method for the diagnosis of early pregnancy in the rabbit is presented. New Zealand White does were artificially inseminated and their uteri were ultrasonographically examined on days 7, 8, 9 and 10 post insemination. On day 7, a low echogenicity area, located in the uterine lumen, could be regarded as an indication of pregnancy. However, on day 8, embryonic vesicles with a diameter of · about 8 mm were identifiable and countable. On day 9, embryonic vesicles developed up to a diameter of about 12 mm. Finally, on day 10, embryonic vesicles' diameter was around 17 mm and their embryonic pole was also identifiable.