During which weeks can the sex of the fetus generally be determined?

Prepare for the Evolve Antepartum Test with comprehensive flashcards, multiple choice questions, hints, and explanations. Get exam-ready today!

The determination of the fetus's sex is generally possible through an ultrasound between 12 to 16 weeks of gestation. During this period, the external genitalia of the fetus are sufficiently developed to be distinguishable, allowing healthcare providers to identify male and female anatomical features.

While earlier gestational ages, such as 8 to 10 weeks or 10 to 12 weeks, may show some early indications through advanced techniques or genetic testing, the accuracy and reliability of predicting the sex of the fetus improve significantly in the 12 to 16-week range. Ultrasound technology becomes more effective during this timeframe, providing clearer images.

By 16 to 20 weeks, the sex of the fetus can still be confirmed, but it becomes less critical since the earlier range already offers clarity. Therefore, the window of 12 to 16 weeks is the most appropriate timeframe for generally determining the sex of the fetus with accuracy during pregnancy.

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