CHALLENGES IN FETAL SEX DETERMINATION BY ULTRASONOGRAPHY IN CATTLE: THE GESTATIONAL PERIOD FACTOR AND DIAGNOSTIC WINDOW

Fetal sexing is the procedure performed to identify the sex of the fetus during gestation. In cattle, fetal sex determination by ultrasonography represents an important tool for reproductive management, as it enables strategic herd planning and supports productive and economic decision-making. However, its accuracy may be influenced by the gestational period in which the examination is performed, as well as by embryonic and fetal development, in addition to factors related to the experience and technical skill of the operator conducting the examination, which may directly impact diagnostic reliability and productivity. In this context, the present study aimed to analyze the factors influencing fetal sex determination by ultrasonography in cattle, particularly gestational age and the diagnostic window. Findings from the literature indicate that, despite existing challenges, ultrasonography remains the most feasible and cost-effective method for fetal sexing in cattle production systems.