Natural Gender Selection Methods

Plan for a boy or girl — simple tools in your browser

Choose Gender

Which gender are you hoping for?

Important disclaimerTap to read

These methods are traditional ideas, not proven science. They are not guaranteed to work. This app is for information and fun only. For medical advice about getting pregnant, talk to your doctor.

How the Shettles method works

The idea is simple: sperm that make boys swim faster but don't last long. Sperm that make girls are slower but tougher. So when you try matters.

Trying for a boy

Try as close to ovulation as you can — ideally the day before or the day of.

  • · Time it right before or on ovulation day
  • · Track ovulation with apps or test strips if you can
Trying for a girl

Try 2–4 days before you expect to ovulate, not on ovulation day.

  • · Plan a few days ahead of ovulation
  • · Know your cycle length for better timing

Dr. Shettles popularized this in the 1960s. Studies don't agree on how well it works — many couples still land around a 50/50 chance.