An exploratory study of the views of Ugandan women and health practitioners on the use of sonography to establish fetal sex.
INTRODUCTION
Ultrasound is now part of routine care for pregnant women in Uganda, and is one of a range of techniques used in screening during pregnancy. However, it differs from most others screening procedures because it allows women to view their babies. Unfortunately, the recipients of this technology are seldom asked about it. This study aimed at finding out the knowledge, attitudes and practices of pregnant women towards prenatal sonography.


METHODS
The study was exploratory and descriptive, using interviewer-administered questionnaires. Thematic analysis was employed.


RESULTS
The health professionals interviewed discouraged the idea of disclosing fetal sex unless it is justifiably indicated for medical reasons. However, the women in this study supported the idea of being told the sex of the baby in order to plan for the necessary items they need.


CONCLUSION
There is need for a policy to be made not to disclose fetal sex to parents as this raises numerous ethical concerns. Health workers, women and the general public need to be sensitized about the dangers of this practice as well.
['Mubuuke|Aloysius Gonzaga|AG|']
D000029:Abortion, Legal D000328:Adult D001290:Attitude D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies D005188:False Negative Reactions D005189:False Positive Reactions D005260:Female D006282:Health Personnel D006801:Humans D010865:Pilot Projects D011247:Pregnancy D011275:Pregnancy, Unwanted D011287:Prejudice D012732:Sex Determination Analysis D012743:Sex Preselection D014342:Truth Disclosure D014454:Uganda D016216:Ultrasonography, Prenatal D014930:Women
sonography Fetal sex Uganda