Abstract :
Data on the use of transvaginal ultrasonography for pregnancy diagnosis in goats are scarce.
The transabdominal and transrectal routes have been repeatedly investigated. The aim of
this study was to evaluate the accuracy of real-time transvaginal ultrasound for early pregnancy
diagnosis in 50 multiparous Saanen dairy goats. Following estrous synchronization
and mating, a B-mode real-time scanner with a 5–7.5 MHz multi-frequency endocavitary
probe was used to examine the animals, in a standing position. The value of visualizing at
least one gestational sac (with or without any fetal pole) to predict the birth of at least one
live kid was monitored at 3–8 weeks post mating. The accuracy (proportion of true positives
and true negatives to the overall study population) for predicting a live birth increased
gradually from 65% at week 3, to 93% at week 8 post mating. Sensitivity values followed a
similar pattern (61% at week 3, increasing to 100% at week 8). Positive and negative predictions
at week 8 were 90% and 100%, respectively. However, the relationship between
the observed number of fetal sacs and the actual number of live births was only 17% at
week 3, increasing to about 60% at week 8. In conclusion, transvaginal ultrasound during
early pregnancy in Saanen goats (especially 5–6 weeks post mating) can effectively predict
live births, but not multiple pregnancies. Further investigations comparing the use of
transrectal and transvaginal routes in pregnant goats should be encouraged.
