I use ultrasound. With knowing what size they actually are, vs. how they feel, I guess I could start to learn what different sizes feel like. But I think that would take a lot of practice to be good enough at it to be somewhat accurate at determining follicle size through palpation.
To me, it seems the 10-13mm follicles feel like something a little smaller than marbles. The 15-17mm range seem to feel like marbles. 20mm feel very prevalent/obvious. Follicles larger than 20 seem to disappear to my palpating attempts for some reason, but only in about 50% of the females... Don't know why. I would gues it's because I don't have years and years of experience at it yet.
I sure like the ultrasound thing... We just checked some more girls last night. Our YB is right on schedule, growing roughly 3mm every 2 weeks. She's at 16mm. Our Paradox Mojave has 9mm follicles. Based on other info. I've been able to find, they should ovulate between 27-35mm. If the 3mm per 2 weeks stays consistent, it gives me an idea of when I should expect ovulation and lay... Ultrasound rocks!
Anyway, I don't mean to deter from your thread. I'd say you need to be pairing for about 2-3 months as soon as you feel follicles. Of course, this is the first year we're using ultrasound, so my suggestions/ideas/information may change after these breedings.
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