What is Baby Gender Testing?
Baby gender testing is a non-medical DNA-based test for individuals who want to know the sex of a baby as early as the first trimester.
During pregnancy, small amounts of fetal DNA naturally pass into maternal blood.
Testing involves a home kit that contains instructions for obtaining a finger prick of mom's blood to be placed on a blood spot card. Mom's blood sample is then sent to a lab for fetal DNA testing.
Males typically have one X and one Y chromosome. Females typically have two X chromosomes.
Essentially, if the blood sample contains Y chromosomal DNA then the baby is stated to be male, and if not, the baby is stated to be female.
What is the Accuracy of Baby Gender Testing?
The accuracy of this testing varies by provider. Each provider has different standards and policies, which should always be reviewed before ordering.
There are external factors that may increase the risk of receiving an inconclusive result or in some cases, an incorrect result. Some of these factors may include:
- bone marrow transplant from a male donor
- recent miscarriage or abortion
- testing too early in the pregnancy
- insufficient blood sample
- sample exposure to hot temperature
- having naturally low levels of circulating fetal DNA
- vanishing twin (pregnancy that began as a twin pregnancy in which one fetus is lost early in the pregnancy)
In order to help minimize factors that can be controlled, detailed instructions are often provided with each testing kit on proper blood collecting techniques.
Baby Gender Testing Considerations
Baby gender testing is considered for recreational, informational purposes only and is not a medical (clinical) genetic test. Go to the Tests tab to link to the best providers, compare providers and read provider reviews.
In order to fully understand the benefits and limitations of testing, genetic counseling may be useful. Use our find a genetic professional directory to locate a trained
genetic professional in your area.
Last Reviewed August 11, 2009