Boy or girl - can you choose?

Can you really influence whether you have a boy or a girl by the position you have sex in? Is it easier to get pregnant second time around and will tight pants really lower your man’s sperm count? We sort the myths from the facts. 
 
Q: Does eating certain foods help to conceive a boy or a girl?

MAYBE

Studies have shown that eating a diet high in potassium and sodium – foods like bananas, spicy and salty foods and red meat – may increase your chances of conceiving a boy.

On the other hand, eating calcium and magnesium-rich foods like milk, cheese, fish, rice and nuts can result in the birth of a girl. This diet method is controversial though and it’s not clear why, or if, it works.

Experts agree that it’s better to have a balanced diet with a wide range of nutrients when trying for a baby.

Q: Is it easier to get pregnant the second time around?

YES

Amazing really, considering all those sleepless nights with a toddler sandwiched in between you! But it’s true, couples who already have children are usually pregnant again within six months of trying, whereas it might take up to a year first time around.

The reasons for this are unclear, and it’s not always true, but they could include the fact that you know your body, and your ovulation cycle, better, and you and your partner know what worked last time.

Q: Does having sex in the missionary position, or with the woman on top, improve the chance of conceiving a girl?

NO

There’s no scientific evidence to suggest that this is true at all. It’s also not true that boys are more likely if you have sex standing up. And while we’re on the subject, there’s no evidence that lying with a pillow under your bum after sex with improve your chance of conceiving either… you’ll just look daft!

Next page: More myths and facts...