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horns of uterus
ovaries
vulva
bladder
probe
If the probe is directed vertically a false reading of pregnancy
could be obtained by reflection of the ultrasonic waves
emanating from the urine in the bladder.
If no pregnancy signal is achieved, (ie: the frequency of the flashing
diode and the acoustic signal remains at once per second) move the
probe by sliding against the skin surface whilst still maintaining good
contact (confirmed by the continuance of the light pulse and sound at
once per second) around the general area, initially moving slightly to the
rear of the bitch and then moving forward always keeping at a 40 to 45
degree angle.
In the diagram opposite, you will see the correct position to place the
probe, which is directed at an angle towards the uterine horns, thus
avoiding the bladder which may produce false readings, especially if the
bitch has a full bladder. It is therefore important to let your bitch urinate
before taking a reading.
It is prudent to note that if you also move the probe forward too far, or
in the centre of the underside of your bitch, up as far as the base of the
sternum, or place the probe on either side of the rib cage itself, then you
may ‘pick up’ fluid within the kidneys, which would provide a false
reading.
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It is imperative therefore to achieve accurate readings that the
probe is placed and tested on either side of the bitch in the
position indicated and shown on the diagram.
The probe should be held firmly against the bitch’s body, but not
pressed so as to cause pressure to the abdominal cavity, with the
ultrasound waves directed at a 40 to 45 degree angle, aiming at the
spine as shown in diagram. Directing the ultrasound waves almost
vertically may cause the reflection of urine in a full bladder, thus
providing a false signal of pregnancy.
For accuracy the tests should be conducted on both sides, when the
bitch is standing.
The best time to test the bitch is when she has an empty stomach and
an empty bladder. A full stomach and/or bladder may cause false
pregnancy results, by reflecting the ultrasound waves. It is best to
confirm the results by testing on 3 occasions.
OBSERVATIONS
The tests can be done from 3 weeks until approximately 40 days after
mating or insemination.
The most accurate results are achieved between days 25 and 28.
If a test is carried out early, we advise that the test is conducted again
between the optimum test period of 25 to 28 days.
Normal scanning time is 15 to 20 seconds or a little longer, but with
practice, accurate test results can be achieved in a few seconds.
Although very high rates of pregnancy accuracy are possible with
practice, natural and physiological factors including re-absorption of the
foetus after a positive scanning result can prevent 100% accuracy being
achieved.
This unit has been designed and calibrated for pregnancy detection on
dogs and is not suitable for use on humans.
