What gender does IVF choose

The question of whether IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) chooses gender is complex and requires a nuanced answer. The short answer is: IVF itself doesn’t choose the gender of a child. However, the process allows for preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) which can be used to select embryos based on their sex chromosomes.

It’s crucial to understand the distinction. IVF is a technique to assist conception. It involves fertilizing eggs with sperm in a laboratory and then transferring the resulting embryos into the uterus. The sex of the resulting embryo is determined at fertilization, randomly by the sperm (carrying either an X or a Y chromosome). IVF doesn’t influence this inherent randomness.

However, PGT is a separate procedure that can be used in conjunction with IVF. PGT allows for genetic screening of embryos before implantation. One application of PGT is to identify the sex of the embryo. This is often done for families with a history of sex-linked genetic disorders. In these cases, selecting an embryo of a specific sex is medically necessary to prevent the child from inheriting the disease.

Importantly, PGT for sex selection for non-medical reasons is ethically contentious and is often legally restricted or prohibited in many countries. While the technology exists to select embryos based on gender, its use is subject to strict regulations and ethical considerations designed to prevent its misuse for purposes like gender preference.

In summary, IVF itself is gender-neutral. The sex of the child is determined naturally during fertilization. While PGT can be used to determine and select the sex of an embryo, its use is heavily regulated and primarily reserved for medical reasons, not for choosing a child’s gender based on preference.