Old Wives Tales - Boy or Girl?

Everyone has probably encountered an old wives tale at some point in their lives.  Particularly, if they are trying to conceive - or they want to try for a girl or a boy in particular - then they've been confronted with many of these old tales about conception.  While there are times when these tales are based on factual information about fertility or infertility, more often than not they are simply tales. 

Here, we will examine some of these old wives tales.  It's hard to argue for, or against, their validity.  Some women swear by them and others laugh at them.  They are certainly not grounded in research, but perhaps they are grounded in individual experiences.  In addition, if they make you interested or willing to try something fun and new with your partner, then they are worthwhile.  If they stress you out, or make you change your comfort zone too much, then throw them to the wind!

Food Makes the Difference

Some wives tales focus on the food you eat when you are trying to conceive.  If you want a boy - it's all red meat.  And the more raw the better.  Eat salty snacks like chips and pretzels, and dads should drink a lot of soda.  To conceive a girl, you should be much healthier.  Both partners should eat fish and vegetables.  But, along with those good foods, you should give into your chocolate cravings - or so the myths go!

Having Fun in the Sack

Many of the discussions of gender selection involve how to be intimate.  To create a boy, you're supposed to make love standing up or in a doggie position.  Focus on the man's pleasure - they say if he comes first then it's more likely to be a boy.  And sleep on the left side of your partner.  In addition, you should have sex during a quarter moon, only at night.  Try to conceive on an odd day of the month and point the woman's head north while making love!

For that girl, stick with the missionary position while focusing on her pleasure.  If she has an orgasm first, it's more likely to be a girl.  Make love in the afternoon with a full moon.  And, of course, try to conceive on the even days of the month.

Some Like it Cool, Some Like it Hot

Apparently, weather and disposition also factor into many of these old wives tales.  If you're relaxed when you conceive, they say it will be a girl; if you're stressed, it's bound to be a boy.  Some say that a man's testicles should be cool if you want a daughter and warm for a son.

These are all, of course, just old wives tales.  It's fun to compare notes that you have from your parents or grandparents with those of your friends.  In general, none of these suggestions are proven to be factually true.  If, however, they allow you to relax more, to have fun with your partner, or to try something new, then they are a great idea as you try to conceive!