Jakarta, ThedailyID — Some couples hope to have a child of a particular sex, whether to balance their family or fulfill personal expectations. However, medical experts say natural methods such as changing diets or timing intercourse have not been proven reliable for determining whether a baby will be a boy or a girl.
According to Dr. Sarah Vij, a urologist at Cleveland Clinic, a baby’s genetic sex is determined at conception when sperm fertilizes an egg. The egg contributes an X chromosome, while sperm carries either an X or Y chromosome. An XX combination typically results in a female embryo, while XY results in a male embryo.
In an article published by Cleveland Clinic on July 7, 2023, Vij explained that the chances of having a baby of either sex remain relatively even.
Several popular theories, including the Shettles Method, suggest that intercourse timing around ovulation can influence a baby’s sex. Other claims involve specific diets, sexual positions and vaginal pH adjustments.
However, scientific evidence does not support these approaches. Vij explained that intercourse timing may increase the likelihood of conception but does not determine the baby’s sex. She also warned that vaginal douching can be harmful and does not improve the chances of having a boy or girl.
What About IVF?
Medical technology offers another possibility through in vitro fertilization (IVF) combined with preimplantation genetic testing (PGT). This procedure allows doctors to examine embryos before they are transferred into the uterus, including identifying their chromosomal sex.
However, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) considers nonmedical sex selection ethically controversial. Its 2022 ethics opinion also emphasizes that clinics should explain their policies and discuss the implications with patients.
Ultimately, choosing a baby’s sex is not something natural conception methods can reliably control. Medical decisions involving embryo selection also require careful consideration, professional guidance and an understanding of the associated risks.
