OC20.04: Pregnant couple's expectations and experiences of non‐medical fetal sex determination in Denmark

Abstract

Oral communication abstractsrecommendations on technical requirements and guidance are sparse as fetal sex determination is not considered mandatory. The aim of this study was to examine current practice and quality of sex determination in mid-trimester malformation scan in Denmark and to examine the expectations and experiences of pregnant couples, particularly in regards to fetal sex determination. Methods: This project consisted of four studies: 1) phone interviews of random sonographers from all fetalmedicine units in Denmark concerning daily practice of fetal sex determination; 2) quality assessment of fetal sex determination of 5786 mid-trimester scans; 3) a questionnaire study of 167 pregnant couples before and after mid-trimester scan concerning their expectations and experiences; 4) qualitative interviews of 15 pregnant couples to deepen responses of study 3. Results: All units performed sex determination at mid-trimester scan but undertook no quality assurance. Sex determination was requested from 77-81% of the pregnant couples and was assessed in 96% cases. Sex was determined correctly in 99.2% cases. All pregnant couples valued normality of the fetus as very important and the sex as less important. Of the couples, 62% wanted additional scans although they were well informed and in a low state of worry. In adjusting expectations, responsibility and possibilities of the scan the professionals were considered to be catalysts for the pregnant couples in having a good review of their child. Conclusions: Fetal Medicine units in Denmark acknowledged the expectations of pregnant couples and conducted sex determination correctly but as no guidelines existed, sonographers expressed difficulty in handling the area. The study showed the importance of the professionals playing a catalytic role in meeting the pregnant couples giving them a good experience while securing normality of their fetus. Objectives: Sex of the fetus is important to pregnant couples and ultrasound has enabled determination of the gender. Fetal sex determination is not considered mandatory. Therefore, we aimed to examine the expectations and experiences of pregnant couples in Denmark attending a mid-trimester ultrasound, particularly in regards to non-medical fetal sex determination. Methods: Two studies were conducted: 1) A questionnaire study of 167 pregnant couples before and after mid-trimester scan concerning their expectations and experiences 2) Qualitative interviews of 15 pregnant couples aimed at elaborating their responses to the questionnaire study. Results: All pregnant couples valued normality of the fetus as very important and the gender as less important. Sex determination was requested from 77% of the pregnant couples and primigravida had the highest grade of expectations of the gender. There was no difference in expectations among women < or >29 years of age. Of the couples, 62% wanted additional scans although they were well informed and in a low state of worry. In adjusting expectations, responsibility and possibilities of...