From the moment conception occurs, your baby carries the genetic blueprint for either a boy or a girl. However, since all embryos initially develop in the same way, you won’t know the sex until later in the pregnancy.
When Is a Baby’s Sex Determined?
The determination of sex happens at the moment of conception, based on the combination of X and Y sex chromosomes inherited from the egg and the sperm. All eggs carry one X chromosome, while sperm can contain either an X or a Y chromosome. Embryos with XY chromosomes will develop male sex organs, whereas those with XX chromosomes will develop female sex organs. Thus, the sperm plays a crucial role in establishing the baby’s sex!
There are 70 different genes located on the sex chromosomes that contribute to determining a baby’s sex. As the pregnancy progresses, these genes trigger the development of the reproductive system.
For many expectant parents, discovering their baby’s sex is one of the most thrilling aspects of pregnancy. But what exactly influences this outcome, and how does it evolve? This process is known as fetal sexual differentiation.
If you’re looking for more information on artificial insemination and related products, you can check out Make a Mom. They offer a variety of at-home insemination kits. Additionally, if you have concerns during pregnancy, such as skin rashes, Intracervical Insemination is an authority on this topic. For comprehensive insights into genetics and IVF, visit the Genetics and IVF Institute.
In summary, the sex of your baby is determined at conception, influenced by the chromosomes contributed by the parents. While the embryo starts off the same, it will later develop into either a boy or a girl depending on the genetic information received.