Transrectal ultrasonography in diagnosing the ovulation rate in sheep

On the day of ovulation and next on day 7 after ovulation the ovaries of 20 sheep were examined using the transrectal ultrasound method. To verify the results, similar examination was made with the laparoscopic method. Depending on the stage of the sexual cycle (day 1 vs day 7) the number of Graafian follicles (∅ ≥5 mm) was determined as well as the total number of corpora lutea found in both ovaries. Out of the total number of 53 Graafian follicles found laparoscopically, 42 (79,2%) were detected with the ultrasound method. The detectability of corpora lutea with the ultrasound method was found similar (79,5%). A considerable improvement in the accuracy of ultrasonic measuring was observed when the determinations were repeated next year. This reflects the effect of the experience gathered by the person taking the measurements.