Fetal Sex: Preferences and Predictions During Pregnancy: a cross-sectional study

Backround: This study examines parental preferences and predictions regarding fetal sex during pregnancy, as well as the factors influencing these preferences. Methods The study was conducted from July 2020 to February 2022 at the University Women's Hospital in Ulm, Germany, and included 296 women with singleton pregnancies between 8 and 14 weeks of gestation and their partners. Using a questionnaire, the participating couples provided demographic information as well as their preferences and predictions regarding the sex of the fetus. Results A total of 61.8% of mothers and 53.4% of fathers had no preference regarding the sex of the child. Among those with preferences (n = 113), 76.1% ofmothers and 46.4% of fathers preferred a girl (p = 0.028). Additionally, 25.3% of mothers and 49.3% of fathers did not make any predictions about the sex (p <0.001). The accuracy of predictions was 48.9% for mothers and 55.0% for fathers (p = 0.002). Mothers with higher education levels more frequently preferred a girl (81.7%) compared to those with lower education levels (50%) (p = 0.003). If the previous child was a girl, 60.9% of mothers and 31.3% of fathers desired another girl; if the previous child was a boy, 96.8% of mothers and 74.3% of fathers desired also a girl (p = 0.001). There was no significant difference in the success of targeted attempts for a specific sex (p = 0.372). Women following vegetarian and vegan diets had significantly more male children (p = 0.021). Conclusion The study reveals significant differences in sex preferences and predictions between mothers and fathers, influenced by educational level and the sex of previous children. These findings provide insights into the psychological and sociocultural factors shaping parental expectations and desires. Further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms and implications of these preferences.