Sex Selection

The debate rages around the world as to whether it's ethical to choose the gender of your baby. But parents know all too well that it doesn't matter what others say, sometimes you can't help hoping that the baby you conceive will be of a specific gender.

So is it possible for a couple to choose the gender of their baby? Yes. Methods exist that have varying degrees of success. These methods range from expensive, invasive medical procedures to home methods that have proven somewhat successful.

When it comes right down to it, if the gender of your child is vital, then you may want to consider adoption. When you adopt, you are guaranteed the gender you want. The methods explained here have varying degrees of success, so if you will be unhappy if the child isn't the gender you hoped for, adoption may be the best route for you.

If, however, you'd just "kind of like" a child of a specific gender, but you'll still be happy if the child turns out to be the opposite gender, then you may want to consider trying a few of the following suggestions.

One of the most reliable methods is in vitro fertilization. In this method, the mother's eggs are fertilized, and then before the embryos are implanted in the mother, the DNA is tested. Only the embryos with the correct gender chromosomes are implanted in the mother. This guarantees that your child will be of the gender you desire.

One major consideration when it comes to this approach is that many clinics will not do in vitro for the sole purpose of gender selection. Some clinics, however, will allow you to gender select if the goal is to balance your family. For instance, if you currently have three daughters and want a son, some clinics will allow you to use this technique.

Another downside is that this procedure often isn't covered by insurance. You would have to pay the complete amount, which can be significant. You'll definitely want to consult with your doctor before you pursue this avenue.

A less-reliable approach is to use one of several sperm separation techniques. Some clinics and companies offer this service. They have various methods they use, but most claim that they do a fairly good job separating the X-carrying sperm from the Y-carrying sperm.

If you want to try to influence the gender of your baby at home, one approach is to try to conceive at certain times. The theory is that if you want a boy, you should have sex within a day of when you ovulate. If you want a girl, you should have sex 2 1/2 or 3 days before you ovulate.

To use this method, you'll need to chart your cycle for a few months or use an ovulation test kit so you know when ovulation will occur. The success rate of this method is debatable, but since it isn't invasive or expensive, you may want to try this approach.