Selection of Sex: Baby Boy
April 16, 2023, by Dr Javed Iqbal
The sex of a baby is determined by the chromosomes of sperm that fertilize the egg; there are no natural methods that control this process. However, there are some popular beliefs and theories about natural gender selection methods that some people may try.
Gender selection, also known as sex selection, is the process of choosing the sex of an unborn baby. This can be done through various methods, such as sperm sorting, preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), and in vitro fertilization (IVF).
There are various reasons why parents may choose gender selection. Some may want to balance their family by having a child of a certain gender, while others may have genetic disorders that they want to avoid passing down to their children. Additionally, in some cultures, there is a strong preference for having a male child over a female child, which can lead to gender-based discrimination and violence.
One of the most common methods of gender selection is sperm sorting, which involves separating the X and Y sperm using a machine called a flow cytometer. X sperm are larger and heavier than Y sperm, so they are separated and used for conceiving a female child, while Y sperm are used for conceiving a male child. This method has been around since the 1970s and is relatively inexpensive compared to other methods.
PGD is another method of gender selection that involves testing the embryos before implantation to determine their gender. This is done through a biopsy of the embryo, which can then be tested for genetic disorders and gender. This method is more expensive than sperm sorting and can only be done through IVF.
IVF is the most invasive method of gender selection and involves fertilizing the egg with sperm in a laboratory and then transferring the resulting embryo to the woman’s uterus. The gender of the embryo can be determined through PGD before it is implanted. IVF is a complex and expensive process, but it is the most reliable method of gender selection.
One of the most popular methods is the Shettles method, which involves timing intercourse based on the ovulation cycle. The theory behind this method is that sperm carrying the Y chromosome (which results in male offspring) are faster and more fragile than those carrying the X chromosome (which results in female offspring). Therefore, having intercourse closer to ovulation is said to increase the chances of conceiving a male child, while having intercourse several days before ovulation is said to increase the chances of conceiving a female child.
Another natural method is the Chinese gender calendar, which is a traditional method that claims to predict the gender of a baby based on the mother’s age at conception and the month of conception. While this method has been popularized on the internet and in various parenting forums, there is no scientific evidence to support its accuracy.
There are a few theories and practices that can increase the chances of conceiving a baby boy:
- Timing of intercourse: Some people believe that timing intercourse closer to ovulation can increase the chances of conceiving a boy, as male sperm swim faster but don’t live as long as female sperm. Therefore, having intercourse closer to ovulation may increase the likelihood that a male sperm will fertilize the egg.
- Diet: Some believe that consuming a diet high in alkaline foods, such as meats, fish, and vegetables, may increase the chances of conceiving a boy. Conversely, a diet high in acidic foods, such as dairy products, may decrease the chances of conceiving a boy.
- Sexual position: Some people believe that certain sexual positions can increase the chances of conceiving a boy. The theory is that deeper penetration may help the male sperm reach the egg faster, increasing the likelihood of fertilization.
Before attempting any natural methods, it’s important to consult with our expert physician, Dr. Javed Iqbal, and to approach this topic with caution and sensitivity.
