How to Conceive a Boy

The suggestions below for conceiving a boy are based on the theories of Dr. Landrum B. Shettles. Dr. Shettles has a made a few simple observations about the differences between sperm carrying the X chromosome (“girl sperm”) and sperm carrying the Y chromosome (“boy sperm”). It is known that boy sperm is lighter than girl sperm, since it contains less genetic material. According to Dr. Shettles, boy sperm is faster than girl sperm (owing to its relatively lighter weight), while girl sperm is hardier and more likely to survive longer under harsher conditions. To increase your chances of conceiving a boy, read on.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Be sure to use a barrier method of contraception for any intercourse within a week prior to anticipated ovulation, so that the stronger, longer lasting girl sperm will not be in the woman’s body prior to ovulation. Complete abstinence is required starting at least 4-5 days before ovulation, since the male partner should avoid ejaculation during that time in order to increase sperm count. Have intercourse only once during the fertile period - on the day of ovulation. Ideal timing is 12 hours prior to ovulation. Abundant fertile quality cervical fluid will increase your chances of conceiving a boy. (Predicting ovulation assumes that you understand a woman’s fertility cycle and are reasonably skilled in some fertility awareness method that allows you to pinpoint the time of ovulation.)
   
   Theoretical basis: If ejaculation occurs just before an egg is released, the slow moving girl sperm will lag behind while the fast-moving boy sperm will reach the egg first and win the race to fertilization. Male abstinence in the days preceding conception help to build a higher sperm count, which favors conception of a boy.
2. Achieve deep penetration during intercourse.
   
   Theoretical basis: Fertile quality cervical fluid at the cervical opening provide a nutrient rich, easily navigable channel for the quick boy sperm to race ahead and reach the egg before the slow and steady girl sperm. The vagina is more alkaline toward the cervix, and alkalinity favors conception of a boy.
3. The female partner should achieve orgasm, if possible before the male partner ejaculates.
   
   Theoretical basis: Female orgasm stimulates the release of alkaline substances in the reproductive tract. Rhythmic muscular contractions help move the sperm toward the egg, with the faster moving boy sperm winning the race.
4. Increase the alkalinity of the woman’s body by consuming foods that are said to make the body more alkaline. A number of websites publish lists of foods that are purported to tip the body’s pH balance toward alkalinity or acidity. Some researchers have also suggested that a diet that includes more potassium and sodium, and less calcium and magnesium, can increase the odds of conceiving a boy. A baking soda douche 15 minutes before intercourse may also increase the alkalinity of the vagina. Consult your doctor before using a douche. See resources below for more information.
   
   Theoretical basis: An alkaline environment favors boy sperm, since they are less hardy and more prone to early demise in an acidic environment. An alkaline environment coupled with proper timing of intercourse increase the odds of conceiving a boy.

Tips & Warnings

• Timing of intercourse is the most important factor in determining the sex of your child.
• DISCLAIMER: While the theory behind the above suggestions is sound, there is no scientific proof that these methods work. Nonetheless, if you conceive you should be prepared to welcome a child of either sex.
• Consult your doctor regarding potential risks before using a douche.
• Consult your doctor before making long term dietary changes, or if you have a medical condition that requires a special diet.