Gender Selection Is No Longer a Far-Fetched Concept
At one time, selecting a child’s sex may have seemed like a concept practiced by some advanced civilization in the distant future. The reality exists here and now, and there are a number of gender selection methods currently in use. Each one has its own pros, cons, and success rate. It stands to reason there are a number of reasons why families would want to influence the sex of their child. These reasons may hinge on medical reasons, personal influences, and attitudes with respect to culture.
Keep in mind there is no shortage of debates concerning the ethics of sex selection. While gender selection is legal in the United States, it is banned in other countries. Of course, there are clinics within the United States that have their own policies regarding the practice. The decision rests with the fertility clinic and the parents, but there are two scenarios where gender selection is generally approved.
- When genetic disorders are detected trough medical screening, the procedure may be approved. Certain genetic disorders, such as hemophilia or various types of muscular dystrophy, may affect male children disproportionately. Thus, if one parent carries an X-chromosome linked to a genetic disorder as mentioned, parents can choose to have a female.
- Parents may also desire a particular sex to balance out their family. Couples with more than child of the same sex can choose the sex of their next child.
Methods used in gender selection include the following.
- In Vivo Natural Gender Selection Methods
Intercourse Timing
Diet Method
- In Vitro (Lab Glass)
Separations by Gradients
Separation b Flux Cytometry
If interested in choosing your baby’s gender, scientists are on your side. It is technically possible thanks to the many advances in fertility treatments. However, some clinics may require that parents meet certain requirements, such as being married and already having at least one child of the opposite gender for which the parents are trying for.
