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Which Parent Determines The Sex Of The Baby

When can you tell the sex of a baby

Before your baby arrives, one of the most important decisions you will make as a parent is before you even have your baby. It is up to you to decide what your baby's sex preferences are. While there is no right or wrong answer, each decision has its pros and cons.

which parent determines the sex of the baby

There are many reasons to find out

These are the most common reasons parents want to know what their baby is doing before they give birth.

Early bonding

New parents often want to bond with their baby before he or she arrives. It can be helpful to learn more about your baby before you meet them.

Curiosity

Sometimes parents don't like the nine-month wait to find out the answer to a major question about their baby. You may be influenced by your personality when deciding to discover the sex of your baby. Some people don't like surprises.

You and your partner may decide that waiting for your baby to be born is part of the fun.

Names

Parents who are hopeful about their child's sex can wait nine months to discover the gender of their future child. This is especially true for those who plan to use a family name, or have baby names that have a special meaning.

Although names are flexible and not necessarily specific to one sex, many families treasure the tradition of passing down a name to the next generation.

Shopping and Registries

You may be partial to specific gender-specific colors or themes for baby clothes and nursery items. It is important to know the sex of your baby before you start.

Planning a party

Gender reveal parties or announcements at baby showers are a popular way for friends and family to learn the news.

The key ingredient for these activities is to know the sex of your baby during the planning stage.

Medical Decision Making

Prenatal monitoring can include determining the sex of a baby to determine if there are any congenital conditions that are more common in one sexe or another.

It is not common for the sex of the foetus to be determined. Usually, genetic testing is performed.

There are many reasons to wait

Some parents don't want to know what their baby is doing. Sometimes one parent is more interested than the other. These are the most common reasons parents wait to learn the sex of their baby until they have it.

Surprise

Some parents are more excited about the surprise birth than they are about the information that is discovered during pregnancy.

Avoiding Disappointment

Some parents have had to deal with gender disappointment. Parents with strong preferences may want to know the baby's sex so they can alleviate their anxiety.

Some people decide to wait to find out, believing it will be easier to be disappointed by the sex of their baby on their birthday due to all the joy and excitement.

Religion and cultural beliefs

Some cultures believe it is bad luck to discover the sex of a baby's mother before birth. Others believe that it is against God's will to know a baby's sex before birth.

Some families encourage their children to wait until they are born before they tell their parents about the baby's sex.

No interest in gender stereotypes

No longer is it expected that girls wear pink and boys wear blue. Today's parents don't believe in gender stereotyping when decorating their nursery, choosing names or purchasing baby clothes.

They might encourage their family and friends to choose more neutral colors when shopping for gifts . Keep the gender of the baby secret to make sure loved ones stick with neutral items.

Potential Risks

There is no right or wrong way to find out the sex of your baby prior to birth. There are pros and cons to every decision. These are some potential downsides.

Gender Disappointment

Parents who want their baby to be a woman can feel disappointment and sadness if they find out they are a male or vice versa.These feelings are sometimes called "gender dissatisfaction" and are felt by many parents. However, many people who are hurt by their child's sex keep their pain private.

An embarrassed parent may feel ashamed if they experience gender disappointment. A parent may feel ashamed if they are not happy with their baby's sex.While every parent wants their baby to be healthy, many parents also desire a baby who fulfills certain goals in life. These hopes may be aligned with a preference to have one sex or another in some cases.

Even if they aren't spoken out loudly, it's perfectly normal to have dreams about your baby. Your child might be intelligent, well-spoken, outgoing and a decent person. Parents who have strong preferences for one sex or the other may decide to wait until their baby is born and then choose the right one. The reason parents make this choice is that they are excited about the day and will feel less letdown.

It's possible to have gender disappointment even if your child is born before you learn their sex. You'll be able to talk through your feelings with a counselor sooner than your baby arrives.

Sex Misidentification

Although mistakes are rare, they do occur. One study showed that 1 in 100 cases of misidentifications of the sex of a foetus during an ultrasound was made 14 weeks. Studies have shown that mistakes occur less often than 1% of all cases. Congenital anomalies can cause genital malformations that increase the likelihood of making a mistake. The first trimester ultrasounds are more likely than those in the second and third to make a mistaken sex identification. An ultrasound technician can determine the sex of a foetus approximately three out of every four times during the first twelve weeks of pregnancy.

which parent determines the sex of the baby

Sex Prediction Methods

Although there are many methods to predict the sex of an unborn child, some are more reliable than others. Here is a quick overview of some of the most common methods to predict the sex of a newborn baby.

Amniocentesis

Amniocentesis can be used to determine fetal sexual activity. It is almost 100% accurate. It is not recommended for predicting sex as there are risks. An amniocentesis, also known as amnio, is a procedure where a needle is carefully inserted into the abdomen and uterus to reach the amniotic sac. An ultrasound is used to guide and direct the needle in its draw up of amniotic fluid. The fetus's DNA is contained in amniotic fluid. The fluid can be analysed for chromosomal information to identify certain genetic diseases and to determine the sex (XX chromosomes in females, XY in males).

Rare cases of genetic disorders can cause atypical sex chromosomes in a foetus. Klinefelter Syndrome XXY or Turner Syndrome XO are two examples. Because of the known risk or concern of genetic anomalies, amniocentesis can be performed. It may be possible if the mother has reached 35 years old or if prior testing indicates an increased risk or if there are family histories of a particular hereditary disorder. You can inquire if you will be able to determine sex if you need an amniocentesis. There is a slight chance of miscarriage and infection with amniocentesis.

A review of 2018 studies revealed that there was a.35% chance of miscarriage after amniocentesis. Both the skill and the time of the technician will affect the risk. The risk of losing a pregnancy is greater if it is done earlier. The needle may also cause harm to the fetus during pregnancy. To reduce the risk, all doctors have been trained to use specific procedures to minimize any potential harm to the fetus in utero. 4

Chorionic Villus Sampling - CVS

The Chorionic villus sampling (CVS), is another reliable method for sex prediction with almost 100% accuracy. It is, however, invasive and can pose a medical risk. Therefore, amniocentesis is not performed to determine the sex of a fetus. CVS uses a sample of tissue taken from the placenta--specifically, the hairy-like projections of the placental tissue called villi. It can be used to test for chromosomal abnormalities in the tissue and determine if the baby has XX (female), or XY(male). CVS can pose risks including infection and increased risk of pregnancy loss. CVS, similar to amnio is not done to predict sex for a fetus. It is possible to request sex prediction if parents are undergoing genetic disease screening.

Non-invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT).

Non-invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) can be used to detect certain chromosomal abnormalities at low risk. This relatively new prenatal test checks for DNA strands free-floating within the bloodstream (cell-free or cfDNA).

Every person has their own cfDNA. However, a pregnant woman also has the unborn child's cfDNA. The placenta contains the fetus' cfDNA. The primary purpose of NIPT is to screen for congenital disease risk. To diagnose a condition, additional testing can be done if the test reveals that a pregnant woman is at greater risk.

NIPT can also help determine the sex of a fetus. It looks for DNA fragments that are not cell-free and Y-chromosome-free. If Y-chromosome cfDNA exists, it is most likely that the baby is a male. It's most likely that the baby is a female if there is no Y-chromosome cfDNA. Although NIPT is very accurate in theory, it is still a new test. It is harder to judge the accuracy of NIPT in practice.

The following factors can impact the accuracy of the test's findings:

  • The test must be performed at the appropriate time (the earlier the test is done during pregnancy, the more accurate it will be).
  • Quality of the blood sample
  • Detection and treatment of genetic conditions that may not have been diagnosed in the mother 6

Studies have shown that sex determination accuracy for NIPT tests is almost 100% when they are completed after eight weeks of gestation. The test's accuracy is almost 100%. However, it does not include situations where test results are inconclusive. A 2014 study found that 10% to 20% of NIPT samples return with inconclusive results 7. This means that of every 10 women who take the test, only 1 or 2 will get any results. If you are pregnant and have multiple babies, NIPT testing is a good way to find out if they are of the same sex or not. The test can't determine the number of males that you have. The test cannot indicate whether there is at most one male or none.

Traditional Ultrasound

The second-trimester method is the best and most well-known way to predict your baby's sex. Routine ultrasounds are usually performed between 18 and 22 week. This is a screening tool to ensure your doctor's good health and development. The technician can also see the sex of your child (with almost 100% accuracy). The technician will look for the "hamburger'' sign to indicate female genitalia during an ultrasound. The penis can be visible in the case of a male fetus. Before the scan begins, let the technician know if you want to know the sex of your baby.

It is also possible to have the baby write it on a piece of paper and then seal it in an envelope so that you can open it later. This is particularly useful for when only one parent can attend an appointment, or if one parent wishes to have sex with the baby.If you plan to surprise your guests at a gender reveal party with your friends, it is a good idea to pass the details to someone who can help.Although ultrasound is not considered to be a risk for pregnant women and their unborn children, it can still pose a risk. Exposure to ultrasound for prolonged periods of time can be dangerous, especially if it is done by inexperienced technicians.

Fetal Sex Ultrasound Mistakes

Although it is unlikely, qualified ultrasound technicians can make incorrect predictions about sex. These are some situations that can make it more likely to make a mistake.

  • The ultrasound was performed in the first trimester. It is possible to see and even detect fetal signs of sex before 14 weeks, but mistakes are more common during this period.
  • Genital anomalies can cause sex problems.
  • Hidden genitalia. It is more common to have ultrasounds done earlier in pregnancy. If a fetus appears to be a female, it could be a male with a "hidden" penis or not easily visible. It is possible for the genitalia to be obscured by the position of the baby and the uterus. It is rare for mistakes to occur after 18 weeks of gestation.
  • An ultrasound tech is inexperienced. Sometimes a mistake is not due to technology's limitations but because the person trying to interpret what they see isn't always able to see. An ultrasound tech's experience and skills can greatly affect the accuracy of determining sex.

How accurate are sex determinations?

One study with 640 pregnancies showed that:

  • All sex determinations made after 14 week were 100% accurate.
  • Results between 11 and 14 week gestation were accurate by 75%.
  • The results were 54% more accurate when performed at 12 week gestation.

Ramzi's Ultrasound Technique

Ramzi's ultrasound method claims you can determine fetal sexual activity based on which side of your uterus your placenta lies.The method states that if the placenta is located on the left it is a sign that the fetus will be female. It's alleged to be male if it's on its right. Although the Ramzi Ultrasound method sounds very scientific, there have been no peer-reviewed studies to prove it accurate. Also, much of the information available is not reliable. Many websites claim that the method is valid for medical purposes. However, the link to the original study is dead. The study is not available online as of 2020.

Supporters of the method argue that you don't know when an ultrasound is showing you the right thing--you might be looking at a mirror image.

The picture could also be taken from the side, rather than from the front. Proponents claim that you cannot tell which side your placenta is in an ultrasound photo printed on paper unless you know what orientation was used to take the image. Websites and businesses are happy to look at your first ultrasound images (for a fee) in order to determine if you have sex using the Ramzi method. It's better to wait until the second-trimester ultrasound. You can get more precise results from your doctor, midwife or experienced ultrasound tech. NIPT can be done as early as 9 weeks or 10 weeks of gestation .

Tests at-Home

You'll likely come across a few home-based methods that can accurately predict a baby’s sex. This is what you need to know regarding the reliability of "at home" sex prediction kits or tests.

Urine tests

Although there are many online kits that can be used to test your urine for gender, scientific evidence has not shown any such tests to be accurate. Many urine tests state clearly on the boxes that they are only for entertainment. You'll also find disclaimers inside other boxes. Users are advised not to base their financial and emotional decisions on the results of at-home urine tests. Do not be deceived by claims of 100% satisfaction or a guarantee to your money back. 

Genetic Testing

You can also take NIPT genetic tests at home. These tests are not high-risk but do require a blood sample. The SneakPeek Test is the most popular brand, followed by Nimble Diagnostics. At-home genetic testing, unlike the at-home urine test, is scientific and can provide useful results for parents.

Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), which is done at-home, can be used to identify cell-free DNA fragments (DNA Strands that are free-floating within the bloodstream). As explained previously, if Y Chromosome cell-free DNA can be found, it indicates that the fetus has been identified as male. If there is no y-chromosome-cell-free DNA, it indicates that the fetus may be female. If the sample is taken according to instructions, at-home NIPT results are around 95%.

You should be aware that your kit may not give you a result from the at-home NIPT test. You may receive an "inconclusive" result. If the sample was taken early (you must be at least 9 weeks pregnant when the test is performed) or the quality of the blood sample is not sufficient, you might receive an inconclusive outcome. Incorrect results can also be caused by accidental contamination if you aren't careful with your hygiene. If you touched your male partner's hands right before taking your sample, the test could pick up his Chromosomes-cell-free DNA and give a false result.

which parent determines the sex of the baby

Non-scientific Methods: Facts

Non-scientific methods of sex prediction are more likely to make mistakes. If the method used is not reliable and does not provide a better guess, you don't want any plans to be made or emotional attachments to an outcome.

Let's face it, there are many common suggestions when discussing the sex of your baby.

Morning Sickness

Folk wisdom is well-known for claiming that you will have more morning sickness when your fetus has a female. This theory may have some truth to it, as it turns out. Research shows that those suffering from severe morning sickness ( hyperemesis gravidarum ) are more likely than others to have a female fetus.

However, studies have not shown a difference in morning sickness. Only severe morning sickness is able to cause a significant difference in the sex ratio. Hyperemesis gravidarum does not necessarily mean you are having a male baby. The fetus is more likely to be a woman than a man. How likely is itIn 2004, a study showed that women who had been hospitalized for hyperemesis Gravidarum were half as likely to become pregnant with a woman. The odds of a fetus becoming a woman after being hospitalized for more than three days are at 80%.

The Intuition of Parents

People claim that they can tell if a person is carrying a male or a female. This method is not based on signs or symptoms, but on the parent's intuition. A small study showed that those with 12+ years of education were able to predict the sex of their child with 71% accuracy. This is better than chance.

Contrary to this, those with less formal education could only correctly guess the sex of their babies 43% of times. Although the results were intriguing, it was not clear how parents' education would impact their intuition. Other research has not shown "parent's intuition to be reliable in predicting sex"

Fetal Heart Tones

People might claim that fetal hearts are faster for female babies than for male babies. Although it may sound like science would support this claim, there have been no scientific studies to prove that it is true.

The statistically significant difference in the heartbeats of a male and female fetus is not statistically significant.

Belly Size and Shape

A common saying is that if someone "carries high", their fetus will be male. This means their stomach looks more like a basketball underneath their shirt. If they are carrying low, the fetus will be female. It is not scientific to say that a baby's sex can be determined based on its parent's stomach shape. Your pregnancy shape and size are more dependent on your genetics, how much weight you have had before becoming pregnant and how many pregnancies.

When you Conceive

Folklore has many connections between sex and when a baby was conceived. According to ancient Chinese gender charts, the age of the mother and month at conception can determine if your baby is male or female.

Folklore has it that a woman who is conceived in an odd month will be a girl and a man who is conceived during an even one will become a man. Some theories suggest that the season in which a baby was conceived can affect their sex. Although these charts are not accurate predictors of sex, research shows that the seasons may play a part in your baby's sexual preferences.

An analysis of 14,000 births in 2003 found that babies born in the fall were more likely to have a male baby, while those born in spring were more likely. Although the research is interesting, it is important to keep in mind that only a small number of babies were included in the study. All sexes can be conceived at any time of the year.

The "Ring Test"

According to the "ring test", a ring placed on a pregnant woman's abdomen and hung from a string can determine the baby's sexual orientation. The test's lore states that if the ring moves in a circle, it is a male baby. Your baby will be a female if it moves side to side. Although it is harmless fun, the scientific validity of the ring test is not established.

The Weight of the Non-Gestational Parent

Another story focuses on non-gestational parents. According to the claim, if the non-gestational partner gains significant weight during pregnancy, then the baby will be a male. If they don't, the child will be a female.

Although there is no scientific or medical evidence linking a non-gestational partner's weight gain with the unborn baby's sex, it is true that some people gain weight during pregnancy. Couvade syndrome ( sympathetic pregnancies) can be a real phenomenon but is not related to the sexual activity of a fetus.

Food cravings

Some believe that if you crave sweets or dairy foods while pregnant, it is likely your fetus has a female counterpart. However, if you crave savory, salty or spicy foods, then your fetus may be male.

Pregnancy is a time when food cravings are common. A study found that 50% to 90% of pregnant women crave specific foods at least once during pregnancy. There is no evidence to suggest that food cravings can be linked with sex in the fetus. However, evidence suggests that pregnant women with male partners may consume more calories than the average person to determine if their fetus is male.

Mood Swings

Another common belief is that major mood swings are a sign that you're pregnant. If you have trouble controlling your temper, it could be that you're having an unborn baby.

It might seem that estrogen levels are higher in a woman having a baby, and testosterone levels higher in a man. However, this is not true. Hormones can affect mood in both sexes. However, hormone levels during pregnancy are not dependent on the sex of a fetus. Based on the sex of a fetus, the amniotic fluid may contain higher levels of sex hormones. However, this does not affect hormone levels in the parents' blood. Although mood swings are quite common during pregnancy, there is no evidence to support the idea that the sex of your fetus influences your moods.

which parent determines the sex of the baby

A word from EliteBaby

Many parents are eager to learn the sex of their baby, but not all do. Each choice has its pros and cons. There is no right or wrong choice. The best decision for you and your partner is the one that works best for both of you. It's normal to want to find a quick and easy method to determine your baby’s sex after all the excitement surrounding the birth. Baby showers can be fun with some predictions, but only invest in science-backed predictions. Ultrasounds after 14 weeks of gestation are the most reliable method for predicting sex.


Sources: 

https://www.verywellfamily.com/sympathetic-pregnancy-symptoms-in-dad-2758792

https://www.verywellfamily.com/understand-early-pregnancy-ultrasound-results-2371367

https://elitebaby.us/blogs/news/for-any-season-baby-shower-theme-ideas

https://elitebaby.us/blogs/news/licensed-midwife-1

https://elitebaby.us/pages/pregnancy-week-22