Pregnancy Planning (cont.)
Can I do something to help my chances of conceiving a boy or a girl?
- The ancient Greeks tied off the left testicle when attempting to conceive a boy.
- French noblemen in the 18th century went one step further and actually removed the left testicle, believing that this would guarantee a male infant.
- In the 19th century, the man would stand on the right bedpost and the woman would lie on her right side after intercourse in order to assure a boy!
- The 20th century brought on the ideas of deep penetration, adjustment of vaginal acidity, consumption of certain foods, position, and other various methods to enhance the chances of bearing either a girl or a boy.
None of the various approaches has ever been scientifically tested. Therefore, no definite statement can be given regarding the success of these techniques, but they probably have no impact on the gender of the baby. Currently there have been a few proven laboratory techniques of increasing the percentage of male or female sperm, but these are not routinely used. These techniques either use electrical charges, or special "gels" through which the sperm have to swim. Even with these techniques, there is no guarantee that a child of the desired gender will be born. Finally, scientists recently published results of a lengthy study which refutes any relationship between the timing of sexual intercourse in relation to ovulation and the gender of the baby.
Pregnancy Planning At A Glance
- Pregnancy planning can address issues of nutrition,
vitamins, body weight, exercise, and potentially harmful medications and
illnesses as well as immunizations and genetic counseling.
- Women who take folic acid at least four weeks prior to
conception can reduce their baby's risk of birth defects of the spinal cord
and skull by 70%.
- Alcohol has been implicated in infertility, early
miscarriage, and birth defects.
- Certain acne medications and other prescription and OTC
medications can cause birth defects.
- Babies of older women have an increased risk of
having chromosomal abnormalities.
- The timing of sexual intercourse in relation to ovulation does not
influence the gender of the baby.
Previous contributing authors: Leon J. Baginski, MD, FACOG and Carolyn Janet Crandall, MD
Last Editorial Review: 1/28/2008
- Birth Control Pills (Oral Contraceptives) - Read about the different types of birth control pills (oral contraceptives) such as monophasic, biphasic, and triphasic. Find out which birth control pill may be the best for you.
- Flu Vaccine - Get the facts about influenza vaccine (flu shot) ingredients, side effects and vaccination effectiveness. Learn who should (children, pregnant women, elderly) and shouldn't get a flu shot.
- Yeast Infection - Learn about vaginal yeast infection symptoms like vaginal burning, itching, soreness discharge, and pain during sex and urination. Treatment information is included in the information.
Latest Medical News
Pregnancy RSS