When it comes to finding out the gender of your baby there are a lot of old wives’ tales out there. But what does the science say? Can your baby’s heart rate predict their gender?
Here’s what we know about heart rate and baby gender.
What the Research Says
There’s not a lot of scientific evidence to support the idea that heart rate can predict baby gender.
One small study from 2001 looked at the heart rates of fetuses at different stages of pregnancy. The study found that male fetuses had faster heart rates than female fetuses. However the difference was only a few beats per minute. And the study only looked at a small number of fetuses ( just under 200).
Another study from 2002 looked at the heart rates of fetuses in the first second and third trimesters. The study found that there was no difference in heart rate between genders in the first and second trimesters. However in the third trimester male fetuses had higher heart rates than female fetuses.
So while there is some evidence to suggest that heart rate can predict baby gender the research is far from conclusive.
How to Check Your Baby’s Heart Rate
If you’re interested in finding out your baby’s heart rate there are a few ways to do it.
Your doctor or midwife can check your baby’s heart rate during a prenatal visit. They’ll use a handheld device called a Doppler to listen to your baby’s heart.
You can also check your baby’s heart rate at home with a fetal Doppler. These devices are available for purchase online or at many pharmacies.
To use a fetal Doppler simply place the device on your abdomen close to where you think your baby’s heart is. You should be able to hear your baby’s heartbeat after a few minutes.
Is There Any Way to Predict Baby Gender?
If you really want to know your baby’s gender the only sure way is to wait until they’re born. But if you’re interested in a few fun ways to predict baby gender there are a few old wives’ tales that you can try.
Some people believe that you can predict baby gender based on the shape of your pregnant belly. The theory is that if your belly sticks out more in the front you’re having a boy. If your belly sticks out more to the side you’re having a girl.
Another popular prediction method is the ring test. To do this you tie your wedding ring to a string and hold it over your pregnant belly. If the ring swings back and forth you’re having a boy. If it circles around in a circle you’re having a girl.
Of course there’s no scientific evidence to support these methods. But they can be fun ways to pass the time while you wait for your little one to arrive.
What is the average heart rate for a baby during pregnancy?
The average heart rate for a baby during pregnancy is about 145 beats per minute.
What is the range of heart rates for a baby during pregnancy?
The range of heart rates for a baby during pregnancy is about 120 to 160 beats per minute.
What is the average heart rate for a boy during pregnancy?
The average heart rate for a boy during pregnancy is about 140 to 145 beats per minute.
What is the average heart rate for a girl during pregnancy?
The average heart rate for a girl during pregnancy is about 135 to 140 beats per minute.
What is the difference between the heart rates of boys and girls during pregnancy?
The difference between the heart rates of boys and girls during pregnancy is about 5 beats per minute.
What does a high heart rate during pregnancy indicate?
A high heart rate during pregnancy usually indicates a healthy pregnancy.
What does a low heart rate during pregnancy indicate?
A low heart rate during pregnancy can indicate a problem with the baby.
What is the best way to monitor your baby’s heart rate during pregnancy?
The best way to monitor your baby’s heart rate during pregnancy is to listen to it with a stethoscope.
What other methods can be used to monitor your baby’s heart rate during pregnancy?
Other methods that can be used to monitor your baby’s heart rate during pregnancy include using a fetal monitor or an ultrasound.
What should you do if you are concerned about your baby’s heart rate during pregnancy?
If you are concerned about your baby’s heart rate during pregnancy you should contact your healthcare provider.
Can stress affect your baby’s heart rate during pregnancy?
Yes stress can affect your baby’s heart rate during pregnancy.
Can crying affect your baby’s heart rate during pregnancy?
Yes crying can affect your baby’s heart rate during pregnancy.
Can physical activity affect your baby’s heart rate during pregnancy?
Yes physical activity can affect your baby’s heart rate during pregnancy.
Can what you eat affect your baby’s heart rate during pregnancy?
Yes what you eat can affect your baby’s heart rate during pregnancy.
Can alcohol affect your baby’s heart rate during pregnancy?
Yes alcohol can affect your baby’s heart rate during pregnancy.
