For couples out there trying to conceive, it has its share for challenges and you might be wondering about what are the best chances of having a boy.
Luckily, there are several ways to consider so you have the best chances of having a boy.
Common misconceptions
Let us first take a look at some of the common misconceptions when attempting to conceive a baby.
Male sperm swims more rapidly than female sperm. This is considered false. Based on research from the 1960s, it claimed that the male sperm (XY chromosomes) and female sperm (XX chromosomes) have specific characteristics. With the latest research, it was exposed that there is no substantial difference between the two types of sperm.
The pH level in the vagina is a factor in selecting gender. This is true. It is important to note that the vagina is naturally more acidic during most of the menstrual cycle which helps in eliminating bacteria and prevents infection. Sperm requires a more alkaline setting to endure for more than a few hours. The pH level of the vagina naturally shifts to an alkaline level in the days that lead up to ovulation. Essentially, male sperm flourishes best in a more alkaline setting. It simply means that the more alkaline the vaginal mucus is, the more likely to conceive a boy. Additionally, diet also plays a role in the alkalinity of the vagina.
Methods to achieve the best chances of having a boy
Let us now take a close look at some of the methods that can ensure the best chances of having a boy.
Billings method
This method requires you to be acquainted with the consistency or texture of the cervical mucus in the days that lead up to ovulation and then after.
In one study, the method has aided couples in choosing the gender of their baby when they schedule intercourse based on the texture of the vaginal mucus.
Shettles method
With this method, it is based on the idea that the male sperm is smaller, lighter and faster than their female counterparts. If this is true, the male sperm can reach the egg quickly than the female sperm.
If you want to have a boy using the Shettles method, the following must be considered:
- Schedule intercourse close to the time of ovulation. The time frame for conceiving a boy is from 24 hours before ovulation to no more than 12 hours past ovulation.
- Utilize an ovulation predictor kit.
- Going deep. The couple must choose sexual positions that allow maximum penetration to increase the chances of survival of the male sperm.
Diet to help conceive a boy
Since the male sperm prefers an alkaline environment, the diet must include the right foods such as:
- Alkaline foods. Some of the recommended choices include figs, apricots, cherries, cantaloupe, lemon, lentils, avocado, pine nuts, royal jelly, carrots, almonds, red radish, orange juice, alfalfa grass, red beets, barley grass, tomato sauce, and wheatgrass.
- Good breakfast. A high-calorie diet can provide the body with extra energy and has been shown to improve the chances of conceiving a boy, particularly breakfast cereals.
- Add sodium and potassium. When scheduled with intercourse after ovulation, eating foods that have a slightly higher amount of salt and potassium but less in calcium and magnesium can help increase the chances of conceiving a boy.
- Reduce the intake of foods that are high in calcium
Avoid intercourse before ovulation
For couples who want a boy, the chances of conceiving a boy can be minimized by refraining from sexual activity in the few days before ovulation or as soon as the fertile cervical mucus appears. Remember that it is more likely for you to conceive a girl if intercourse is done during that time.
Final thoughts
Depending on the method that you will use, it can help provide the best chances of having a boy. Just remember to try out any of these methods since what will work for one might not work for you.
Read also:
- [Pregnancy and Dreaming of a Baby Girl]
- [Symptoms of Baby Boy During Pregnancy]
- [Some Interesting Old Wives Tales Predicting Baby’s Gender]
