Effects of Prenatal Diagnostic Ultrasound Exposure on Rabbit Fetus

Ultrasound is extensively used in various clinical specialities since it was perceived to lack in bioeffects. In obstetrics and gynaecology it has been proven useful in fetal assessment and abnormalities. Due to its high sensitivity of developing fetus to external interferences through diagnostic ultrasound advances the revision of potential prenatal bioeffects is needed to be corroborated. This in-vivo experimental study was designed to determine the physical and morphological effects on fetus development. Twelve pregnant rabbits were exposed to ultrasound exposure durations of 30 60 and 90 minutes in the middle of three stipulated gestational stages. All other acoustic output parameters were kept constant throughout the study. .The result suggested that prenatal ultrasound exposure might interfere with those sensitive stages hence plausibly interrupted the physical development. Further work is needed to provide more scientific evidence on prenatal ultrasound effects on the fetus.