One of the most exciting moments in pregnancy is finding out your baby’s gender. Whether you’re dreaming of little bows and tutus or tiny sneakers and overalls—or simply can’t wait to connect with your little one on a deeper level—knowing your baby’s gender is a major milestone. But while curiosity can start building as early as that first positive pregnancy test, the big question is: When is the best time to get a gender scan? Let’s explore the answer in detail, including the timing, different types of scans, accuracy, and other helpful insights to guide expectant parents through this joyful journey.
Understanding Gender Scans
A gender scan, also known as a fetal sex determination scan, is an ultrasound performed during pregnancy to determine the biological sex of the baby. While some couples choose to keep it a surprise until birth, many parents-to-be opt to find out early for a range of reasons—from emotional bonding and planning to sheer curiosity.
When Can You Find Out the Gender?
✅ The Ideal Time: 18 to 22 Weeks
The most accurate and widely recommended time to get a gender scan is during the anatomy scan, typically done between 18 to 22 weeks of pregnancy. This detailed ultrasound examines the baby’s organs, limbs, brain, and heart—but it also gives a clear view of the baby’s genitals, allowing the technician or doctor to determine the gender with high accuracy (usually over 95%).
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At this stage:
- The baby’s genitals are well-developed and easier to distinguish.
- The ultrasound image is clearer, which helps in accurate identification.
- The baby is big enough, but not too cramped, offering good visibility.
In most cases, if the baby is in a good position (not crossing legs or curled up), the technician will be able to tell the gender confidently.
Earlier Gender Prediction Options
If you simply can’t wait until the mid-pregnancy scan, there are a few earlier options available:
1. NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) – From 9 to 10 Weeks
Originally designed to screen for chromosomal abnormalities, NIPT also identifies the presence or absence of the Y chromosome in the mother’s blood. As early as 9 weeks, this blood test may accurately identify gender with over 99% accuracy.
Pros:
- Extremely accurate
- Early results
- Non-invasive and safe
Cons:
- Commonly expensive (insurance won’t cover until medically important)
- Primary purpose is genetic screening, not gender identification
2. Early Gender Ultrasound – From 14 to 16 Weeks
Some clinics offer early gender scans starting from 14 weeks, though the accuracy at this stage can vary from 70% to 95%, depending on factors like baby’s position, the technician’s skill, and the ultrasound equipment.
Note: Many professionals consider scans before 16 weeks to be less reliable due to the similar appearance of male and female genitalia in early fetal development.
What Affects the Accuracy of Gender Scans?
Several factors can influence whether a gender scan is successful or not:
- Baby’s position: If the baby is facing away, sitting cross-legged, or moving too much, the technician may struggle to get a clear view.
- Amount of amniotic fluid: Insufficient fluid can make it harder to see.
- Mother’s body type: Extra abdominal tissue can make imaging more difficult.
- Gestational age: The further along you are (within reason), the clearer the images tend to be.
- Ultrasound quality: Higher-resolution machines and skilled sonographers increase accuracy.
In cases where the gender can’t be determined with certainty, you may be asked to come back in a few days for a repeat scan.
Should You Find Out the Gender?
While many people are excited to know and plan accordingly, others prefer the traditional route of waiting until birth. There’s no right or wrong choice here—just what feels best for you and your family.
Pros of Knowing the Gender:
- Helps in name selection
- Easier to plan nursery décor and baby shopping
- Deepens emotional connection
- Can help prepare siblings and family
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Reasons Some Choose to Wait:
- Enjoy the surprise
- Avoid gender stereotyping
- Cultural or religious beliefs
- Keeps excitement alive until delivery day
What If the Scan Gets It Wrong?
Though rare after 18–20 weeks, gender prediction is not 100% guaranteed, even with the best equipment and most experienced technicians. Human error or ambiguous views can lead to incorrect assumptions. That’s why some people wait for multiple confirmations or keep their preparations neutral, just in case.
Be Patient and Enjoy the Journey
Finding out your baby’s gender is a special moment, but try not to rush it. The 18–22 week mark is the sweet spot for accuracy, but if you’re considering an early scan or NIPT, it’s totally fine—just be aware of the accuracy ranges and potential limitations. At the end of the day, whether you’re decorating a nursery or choosing names, remember that your baby’s health and happiness come first. Gender scans are a beautiful bonus in the incredible journey of parenthood. So breathe, trust the process, and get ready for the magical ride ahead—no matter if it’s a little prince, a princess, or the best kind of surprise. Visit Northwest Clinic.
Frequently Ask Questions
Q. How early can you get a gender scan?
A. You can get an early gender scan from 14 weeks via ultrasound, or opt for a NIPT blood test from 8–10 weeks for earlier gender detection.
Q. At what week is the gender scan done?
A. Most gender scans are done between 16 to 20 weeks, when the baby’s genital development is clear enough to accurately determine the sex.
Q. How can you tell if a scan is a boy or girl?
A. A trained sonographer checks for gender markers—a “turtle sign” indicates a boy, while three white lines suggest a girl during an ultrasound.
Q. At what month can a scan detect baby gender?
A. A baby’s gender can usually be identified in the 4th month of pregnancy (around 16 weeks) using a detailed ultrasound scan.
Q. How to tell if a boy or girl?
A. The most accurate ways to determine if it’s a boy or girl are through a mid-pregnancy ultrasound or a non-invasive prenatal test (NIPT).
Q. How to conceive a baby boy 100%?
A. There is no natural method that guarantees a baby boy—only IVF with gender selection (PGT) can offer nearly 100% certainty, under medical guidance.