How Can I Tell If I’m Having a Boy or a Girl?

When it comes to predicting your baby’s sex, many old wives’ tales abound. Unfortunately, none of these myths have scientific backing.

Debunking Common Myths

• Heart Rate Theory: It’s often said that a fast heartbeat indicates a girl, but studies show no evidence supporting this.
• Bump Shape: Whether you’re carrying high or low doesn’t predict your baby’s sex.
• Cravings: Sweet or salty cravings are also unreliable indicators.
• Skull Theory: The idea that skull shape on an ultrasound can predict sex is another myth without scientific support.

Reliable Methods to Determine Baby’s Sex

There are four reliable methods to determine your baby’s sex during pregnancy:

1. Ultrasound Scan

The most common method is the 20-week ultrasound scan, typically done between 18 and 21 weeks of pregnancy. Sometimes, due to the baby’s position or movement, the sex may not be visible. Additionally, some hospitals have policies against revealing the baby’s sex, so it’s wise to check beforehand. If you’re eager to know sooner, private scans can determine sex as early as 16 weeks, though limiting the number of ultrasounds is generally advised.

Also read: Signs You Might Be Expecting A Boy

2. Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)

NIPT is a blood test that can estimate the likelihood of genetic conditions and can reveal your baby’s sex as early as 10 weeks when done privately. While it’s available on the NHS for genetic screening, it isn’t used to determine sex unless you opt for a private test. Though reliable, these tests can be costly, so many parents wait until the 20-week scan.

3. Amniocentesis

Amniocentesis is a test offered if there’s a higher risk of genetic conditions. It involves taking a sample of amniotic fluid for testing, usually done after 15 weeks. The procedure carries a small risk of miscarriage and is typically only used to identify genetic abnormalities. The baby’s sex is usually revealed only if related to a specific genetic condition.

4. Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)

CVS is similar to amniocentesis but is done earlier, between 11 and 14 weeks. It involves taking a small sample of placental tissue. Like amniocentesis, it carries a small risk of miscarriage and is performed if there’s a higher risk of genetic abnormalities. The baby’s sex is identified only if relevant to a genetic condition.

Conclusion

While old wives’ tales can be fun, the most reliable ways to determine your baby’s sex involve medical procedures and tests. Whether through an ultrasound scan, NIPT, amniocentesis, or CVS, you can get an accurate answer, though each method has its considerations. For those who prefer a surprise, waiting until birth is always an option.

Also read: Can Folklore Predict If You’re Having A Boy Or Girl?