If you’re pregnant and wondering whether you’re carrying a boy or a girl, you’re not alone. Many expectant parents eagerly anticipate finding out the sex of their baby. While there’s no surefire way to know for certain until you give birth, there are several signs and old wives’ tales that may give you an idea of your baby’s gender.
Here are some of the ways to determine if you’re pregnant with a boy:
Ultrasound
One of the most reliable ways to determine your baby’s gender is through ultrasound. During a routine ultrasound, your healthcare provider will look for the presence of male genitalia. If the ultrasound technician is unable to see the genitalia, it may be too early in your pregnancy to determine your baby’s gender.
Blood Test
Another option for determining your baby’s gender is through a blood test. Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is a blood test that can detect fetal DNA in your bloodstream as early as nine weeks into your pregnancy. The test can detect the presence of a Y chromosome, which indicates that you’re carrying a boy.
Fetal Heart Rate
One of the most popular old wives’ tales about predicting a baby’s gender is based on the fetal heart rate. According to the myth, if the fetal heart rate is above 140 beats per minute, you’re carrying a girl. If it’s below 140 beats per minute, you’re carrying a boy. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
Carrying High or Low
Another old wives’ tale is based on the way you’re carrying your baby. If you’re carrying high, you’re said to be carrying a girl. If you’re carrying low, you’re said to be carrying a boy. However, the position of your baby has nothing to do with its gender.
Food Cravings
According to some people, your food cravings can indicate the gender of your baby. For example, if you’re craving sweet foods, you’re said to be carrying a girl. If you’re craving salty or savory foods, you’re said to be carrying a boy. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
Ultimately, the only way to know for certain whether you’re carrying a boy or a girl is to wait until your baby is born. In the meantime, enjoy your pregnancy and focus on taking care of yourself and your growing baby.
