Thinking about choosing a baby's gender? Sex selection IVF lets couples influence whether they have a boy or a girl before conception. It sounds high‑tech, but the basics are simple enough to explain in a few minutes. Below you’ll get the real picture – how the method works, what the law says, and what you might spend.
First, doctors collect eggs and sperm just like a regular IVF cycle. Then they separate the sperm into two groups: one with mostly Y‑chromosome sperm (boy) and one with mostly X‑chromosome sperm (girl). The chosen group fertilizes the eggs, and the resulting embryos are grown for a few days. Finally, the best‑looking embryo is transferred back to the uterus.
The most common lab technique is called Pre‑Implantation Genetic Testing (PGT‑A). With a tiny cell sample, the lab can read the chromosome and confirm the embryo’s gender. The process adds a step, but it gives a clear answer before the transfer.
Timing matters. The sperm sorting step must happen right before fertilization, and the embryo biopsy for PGT‑A occurs around day five. That’s why clinics with a dedicated IVF lab usually achieve higher success rates.
In India, sex selection for non‑medical reasons is regulated by the Pre‑Conception and Pre‑Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act. Clinics can offer gender selection only after a thorough counseling session and a documented request. The law aims to stop gender bias, so you’ll need to sign a consent form stating your intention.
Cost varies widely. Basic IVF cycles start around ₹1,00,000, while adding sperm sorting and PGT‑A can push the total to ₹1,80,000‑₹2,50,000. Prices depend on the clinic’s reputation, lab technology, and the number of embryos you want tested.
Success rates for sex‑selected IVF are similar to regular IVF – roughly 40‑55% per fresh cycle for women under 35. Age remains the biggest factor; older women see lower implantation odds regardless of gender selection.
To improve chances, many couples opt for a double embryo transfer, but that also raises the risk of twins. Talk with your doctor about what balance feels right for you.
Lastly, don’t ignore the emotional side. Choosing a gender can bring extra pressure, so make sure both partners are on board and have realistic expectations. Support groups and counseling can help you stay grounded throughout the journey.
In short, sex selection IVF gives you a scientific way to influence your baby’s gender, but it comes with legal hoops, added cost, and the same age‑related success limits as regular IVF. Do your homework, talk openly with a certified clinic, and decide if the extra steps fit your family plan.
Find out if you can pick a baby's gender during IVF, the methods available, legal limits, costs and ethical considerations in a clear, practical guide.
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