How a baby’s sex is decided
A baby’s chromosomal sex is fixed at the moment of fertilisation. Every egg carries an X chromosome; each sperm carries either an X or a Y. An X-carrying sperm produces a girl (XX), and a Y-carrying sperm a boy (XY). Nothing the mother eats, does or the date she conceives on changes this.
Popular predictions tested
| Method | Claim | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Chinese gender calendar | Mother’s lunar age + month of conception | Studies show accuracy no better than chance (~50%) |
| Fetal heart rate | Over 140 bpm = girl | No meaningful difference between boys and girls |
| Bump shape or carrying high/low | High = girl, low = boy | Depends on muscle tone, body shape and baby’s position |
| Cravings (sweet vs salty) | Sweet = girl | No scientific basis |
| Severe morning sickness | Girl | Slight statistical association in large studies, useless for an individual |
That is why we do not offer a “gender calculator”: none of these methods works better than tossing a coin.
The law in India
The Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, 1994 prohibits sex selection and the determination or disclosure of the sex of a fetus. Doctors, scan centres and anyone who seeks such information can face imprisonment and fines. Every ultrasound centre in India must display a notice stating this.
The law exists to protect girls. India’s child sex ratio has long been skewed by sex-selective practices. Every child – girl or boy – deserves to be welcomed equally.
What to focus on instead
Instead of guessing, enjoy the journey: follow your baby’s growth in our week-by-week guide, keep your scans and check-ups on schedule, and prepare for the day you meet your baby.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Chinese gender chart accurate?
No. Research comparing its predictions with actual births found it was right about half the time – the same as guessing.
Can a scan show the baby’s gender in India?
Sex determination is illegal in India under the PCPNDT Act. Scan centres will not disclose it.
Medical disclaimer: The results and information on this page are estimates for general education only. They are not a diagnosis and do not replace advice from your gynaecologist, obstetrician or midwife. If you have pain, bleeding, reduced baby movements or feel unwell, contact your doctor or call 108 immediately. Read the full disclaimer.
Sources & further reading
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. Maternal health guidelines, PMSMA and Anemia Mukt Bharat. nhm.gov.in