Predict baby gender based on fetal heart rate (fun old wives' tale).
Normal range: 90-170 BPM
Heart rate can be detected from week 8
Prediction Result
Source: Davis R, et al. (2016). "Fetal Heart Rate as a Predictor of Fetal Sex."
Journal of Perinatal Medicine, 44(2), 215-220. Found no significant difference
between male and female fetal heart rates in over 1,000 pregnancies.
Source: Johnson S, et al. (2023). "Systematic Review of Fetal Heart Rate Gender Prediction."
Obstetrics & Gynecology Review, 12(1), 45-52. Comprehensive analysis of 27 studies
concluded fetal heart rate is not a reliable predictor of baby's sex.
Scientific Reality: The heart rate gender prediction method has exactly 50% accuracy -
identical to flipping a coin. A 2023 systematic review of all available research confirmed that
fetal heart rate does not reliably predict baby gender. Factors like baby's activity level,
maternal stress, and time of day cause heart rate to fluctuate naturally by up to 25 BPM,
making any gender prediction based on heart rate scientifically unfounded.
How to Measure Fetal Heart Rate for Gender Prediction
Wait for Appropriate Gestational Age: Wait until at least 8-10 weeks when fetal heart rate is detectable
Use Appropriate Equipment: Use a Doppler device, ultrasound machine, or fetal monitor to measure heart rate
Take Multiple Measurements: Take measurements at different times of day as heart rate fluctuates
Record the Heart Rate: Note the BPM (beats per minute) reading from your device
Apply the Traditional Theory:
Below 140 BPM = Boy prediction, Above 140 BPM = Girl prediction (for entertainment only)
Heart Rate Method vs Other Gender Prediction Methods
Method
Best Timing
Accuracy
Scientific Support
Heart Rate Method
12+ weeks
50%
None (debunked)
Nub Theory
12-14 weeks
75-92%
Strong (multiple studies)
Shettles Method
Conception timing
60-65%
Moderate
Chinese Chart
Any time
55%
None
Baking Soda Test
Any time
50%
None (myth)
Frequently Asked Questions
Does fetal heart rate really predict baby gender? ▶
No, multiple scientific studies have shown that fetal heart rate does not reliably predict baby gender. A 2023 systematic review of all available research found no significant correlation between fetal heart rate and baby's sex. Any perceived accuracy is due to random chance (50% probability), the same as flipping a coin.
Where did the heart rate gender myth come from? ▶
The heart rate gender myth appears to have originated in the 1950s when fetal monitoring became more common. It likely stems from the observation that adult women have slightly higher resting heart rates than adult men. However, this correlation does not hold true for fetuses, as multiple studies have shown no significant difference between male and female fetal heart rates.
Why do people believe the heart rate gender prediction method works? ▶
People believe this myth due to confirmation bias - remembering the times it was 'right' and forgetting when it was 'wrong'. With 50% accuracy, it will be correct about half the time. Additionally, fetal heart rate naturally fluctuates between 90-170 BPM throughout pregnancy, creating opportunities for coincidence. The myth persists because it's simple and requires no special equipment.
What is the actual accuracy of heart rate gender prediction? ▶
The actual accuracy of heart rate gender prediction is 50% - identical to random chance. A 2016 study in the Journal of Perinatal Medicine found no significant difference between male and female fetal heart rates. A 2023 systematic review confirmed these findings, concluding that fetal heart rate is not a reliable predictor of baby's sex. Factors like baby's activity level, maternal stress, and time of day cause heart rate to fluctuate naturally by up to 25 BPM.
Want to Track Your Fertility?
While fetal heart rate monitoring can't predict baby gender, tracking your own fertility signs can help with family planning. Our partner site offers a variety of free tools including an Ovulation Calculator to help you understand your cycle better.