Many parents are curious whether there is anything they can do to influence their baby’s sex before conception. While no method can guarantee a girl, several popular gender swaying theories claim to improve the odds.

These theories typically focus on factors such as timing intercourse, dietary changes, supplements, and cervical pH. Some have limited research behind them, while others are largely anecdotal.

If you’re curious about the idea of conceiving a girl, here’s a closer look at some of the most commonly discussed theories and the research behind them.

Related: How To Conceive a Certain Gender

Can You Influence Baby Gender?

Scientists have studied whether factors such as diet, timing, and reproductive tract conditions may influence the likelihood of conceiving a boy or girl. While some studies suggest possible associations, no natural method has been proven to reliably determine a baby’s sex.¹

Popular Theories for Conceiving a Girl

While none of these approaches can guarantee a girl, they are among the most commonly discussed gender-swaying theories.

Follow a More Acidic Diet

One popular gender-swaying theory suggests that a more acidic environment may favor X-chromosome sperm, which are associated with conceiving a girl. According to one study, a calcium-rich, low-sodium diet, combined with other gender-swaying techniques, may increase the likelihood of conceiving a girl.¹ Foods commonly associated with a more acidic dietary pattern often include dairy products, certain grains, and foods rich in calcium.

Related: Foods That May Help You Conceive a Boy

Increase Calcium and Magnesium Intake

Some gender-swaying theories suggest that higher calcium and magnesium intake may support the likelihood of conceiving a girl.¹ Many people do not get enough calcium in their diets, which may be one reason these nutrients are frequently discussed in gender-swaying conversations.²

Have Sex Several Days Before Ovulation

This recommendation is based on the theory that X-chromosome sperm may survive longer in the reproductive tract, while Y-chromosome sperm may move faster but have a shorter lifespan. According to this theory, having intercourse several days before ovulation may give X-chromosome sperm a better chance of reaching the egg.¹

Circling back to the study, perhaps the most influential gender swaying technique is still the most elusive, especially for those not tracking ovulation. According to the study, with the diet changes above, timing intercourse days before ovulation is the key to swaying successfully.¹

Related: Signs You’re Having a Girl: 23 Fun Clues to Look For

The Shettles Method

One of the best-known gender-swaying approaches is the Shettles Method. Developed by Dr. Landrum Shettles in the 1960s, this theory suggests that timing intercourse relative to ovulation may influence a baby’s sex. The method recommends having intercourse several days before ovulation when trying to conceive a girl and closer to ovulation when trying to conceive a boy. While the Shettles Method remains popular, research on its effectiveness is mixed, and it has not been proven to reliably influence baby gender.^3,4

Other Gender Swaying Techniques

Other gender-swaying theories include changing sexual positions, altering cervical pH, and adjusting the timing and frequency of intercourse. These methods are often discussed alongside timing and dietary approaches. While these approaches are widely discussed online, there is limited scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness. While these approaches are widely discussed online, there is limited scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness.⁴

While many parents enjoy exploring gender swaying theories, no natural method can guarantee a girl. If you decide to try any of these approaches, it’s best to view them as interesting possibilities rather than proven outcomes. Ultimately, the goal is a healthy pregnancy and baby, regardless of sex.