Ways to identify the sex of the baby in the womb: Myths and Truths
After getting pregnant, every parent has this question in their mind that what will be the sex of their child – boy or girl? Although, in most countries, it is legally prohibited to find out the sex before birth, there are many traditional beliefs and home methods, which people use to predict the sex of the baby in the womb.
In this article, we will discuss various myths and scientific truths related to the identification of the sex of the baby in the womb.
Traditional ways to identify the sex of the baby in the womb (Myths & Beliefs)
1. Prediction by the shape and height of the stomach
It is believed that if the belly of a pregnant woman hangs downwards, then there is a high possibility of having a boy. On the other hand, if the stomach is raised upwards, then there is a possibility of having a girl.
Truth: Scientifically this is a misconception because the shape of the belly depends on the mother’s anatomy and the position of the baby, not on its sex.
2. Mother’s food preferences
It is said that if a pregnant woman craves sweet food more, then it will be a girl, and if there is a greater desire to eat spicy or sour food, then it will be a boy.
Truth: Food preferences change during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, not due to the sex of the baby.
3. Gender identification by heart rate
Many people believe that if the heart rate of the baby in the womb is more than 140 BPM (Beats Per Minute), then it is a girl, and if it is less than this, then it is a boy.
Truth: There is no scientific basis for this in medical research. Heart rate depends on many factors, including the time of conception and the activity of the baby.
4. Changes in face and skin
According to some beliefs, if the mother’s skin looks more shiny during pregnancy, then it is a boy, and if pimples and blemishes increase, then it is a girl.
Truth: Skin changes are due to hormonal imbalance during pregnancy, not due to the sex of the baby.
Scientific Methods to Know the Gender of the Baby in the Womb
1. Ultrasound Scan
Ultrasound is the only safe and reliable method by which doctors can identify the sex of the baby in the womb. In 18 to 22 weeks of pregnancy, ultrasound can determine whether the baby is a boy or a girl.
Note: In many countries including India, it is illegal to identify the sex of the fetus.
2. NIPT – Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing
This is a blood test, which can be done after the 10th week. This test is done to check genetic disorders, but it can also reveal the sex of the baby.
3. Amniocentesis
This is an invasive test, which is commonly used to check genetic problems. In this, a sample of amniotic fluid is taken, which can also give information about the sex of the baby.
Is it correct to identify the sex?
Gender testing is banned in many countries because it can lead to gender-based discrimination and female foeticide. Therefore, it is important that instead of worrying about the gender of the baby, we focus on its good health and safe birth.
