Can We Choose Baby Gender?
Yes, it's possible to choose your baby's sex, but only through a specific medical procedure. There are no reliable natural methods to guarantee a baby's sex.
The only scientifically proven method for sex selection is in vitro fertilization (IVF) combined with preimplantation genetic testing (PGT). IVF involves fertilizing eggs with sperm in a lab. PGT then allows testing of the embryos to determine their sex before implantation. This allows parents to choose which embryo(s) to implant, selecting for the desired sex. [Multiple sources, including https://www.health.com/condition/pregnancy/is-it-actually-possible-to-choose-a-babys-gender-through-ivf, confirm this method.]
- IVF: Eggs are retrieved and fertilized in a lab.
- PGT: Embryos are tested to determine their sex chromosomes (XX for female, XY for male).
- Selection: Parents choose embryos of the desired sex for implantation.
It's crucial to note that the terms "sex" and "gender" are distinct. Sex refers to biological reproductive organs, while gender is a social construct. PGT allows selection based on biological sex. [https://www.health.com/condition/pregnancy/is-it-actually-possible-to-choose-a-babys-gender-through-ivf]
Methods Claiming Sex Selection – But Lack Evidence
Several methods claim to allow sex selection naturally (e.g., the Shettles method focusing on timing intercourse relative to ovulation). However, there's no robust scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness. [https://www.givelegacy.com/resources/can-you-choose-the-sex-of-your-baby/] These methods should not be relied upon for sex selection.
