Pregnancy Scanning Expectation

For accurate aging of the foetus the optimum time for ultrasound scanning is between 6 and 15 weeks post conception.
The foetus at this stage can usually be aged within a week of its true age from conception.

This is generally done by pregnancy testing 6 weeks after completion of AI (artificial insemination) and then a recheck of the empties 6 weeks after the bull has been taken out of the herd.

If you have AI records and only require conformation of AI pregnancy, but require aging of naturally mated animals, this can be done by a single pregnancy test 6 weeks after the bull is finished.

Pregnancy testing after 16 weeks lessens the accuracy of aging as the foetus has dropped out of ultrasound scanning range, but is still achievable to a lesser degree.

If you only require conformation of pregnancy, this can be done at any stage during the pregnancy.
Animals with no detectable empty uterus are manually checked.

Numbers scanned per hour vary depending on the information required, the records that are available, and the facilities.
Generally 150 - 200 cows per hour can be scanned if aging is required, and 300 per hour if conformation of pregnancy only is required.

If you have herd records of matings it is helpful to have these available. The more information, the more accurate the results.

Abnormalities such as pyometra, endometritis, and ovarian cysts are delectable in most cases and will be recorded.

If you have recently induced cows in the herd please let us know as there may still be retained fluid and placenta, and this can indicate signs of pregnancy.