Fetal sex determination: Obstetricians’ attitudes in antenatal screening units in Finland

Abstract

Aim: To study obstetricians’ attitudes in Finnish antenatal screening units concerning fetal sex determination without medical indication. Methods: A structured questionnaire to all delivery units (n = 37) and the main outpatient screening units (n = 18) in the country. Results: The majority of units made fetal sex determination without medical indication at patient’s request during the second-trimester ultrasonographic screening. This examination was seen to have consequences for maternal—fetal attachment, but it was also considered medically useless and sometimes harmful. Only three out of the responding 32 units maintained quality control of the examination. A false diagnosis resulted extremely seldom in any litigation process. Conclusions: More precise guidelines are needed for fetal sex determination in healthcare organisation.