Sex selection, or more commonly called gender selection, is when a couple will decide upon the sex of their child. This may be performed for medical reason or for the couple wanting a specific gender. Medical reasons for a couple wanting a specific gender may be decrease the risk of passing on sex-related diseases.
Types of Sex Selection
There are different types of sex selection. The most effective is preimplantion genetic disease, or PGD. In PGD, the eggs are removed from the mother and sperm are injected into the egg, just like in vitro fertilization. Once the embryo starts to form, there are tests performed to determine the sex of the embryo and if it has any defects. This will ensure that the embryo implanted will be of good quality and most likely the right gender. This procedure is not 100% guaranteed, but is the most reliable when it comes to gender selection.
There are other types of sex selection, such as the Gradient Methodin, where the male's semen is placed in a centrifuge. A centrifuge is a machine that spins rapidly, while it spins it separates the semen. The X chromosomes are heavier than the Y chromosomes due to the genetic make up of the cells. The desired chromosome is then implanted into the uterus. This method is much less expensive, but has lower success rates.
Another type of sex selection is Flow Cytometry. In Flow Cytometry, the sperm is placed in a fluorescent dye to separate the X chromosome sperm from the Y chromosomes. The sperm is then separated by a laser and then placed in the uterus. The success rates are between 50% and 60% with Flow Cytometry.
Cost Of Sex Selection
When considering sex selection, you should know that it is an expensive process. The average cost of sex selection is between $600 for the Gradient Method and up to $4000 for Preimplantation Method. This does not include the cost of IVF or in vitro fertilization. The IVF costs can range from $8000 to $15000.
Legal Problems
There are many legal and ethical issues one should be prepared to deal with when considering sex selection. Some countries do not allow determining the gender of babies. There are many other concerns that people will start wanting to choose not just the sex of the child, but the hair color, eye color and other specific genetic make up of the child. Sex selection should be used for the right reasons.
When a couple is considering using sex selection, they should expect a long and expensive process. The outcome of the selection may not always be what they want. Mistakes are made in this highly technical process. The couple should be emotionally and financially prepared for this. Talk to your doctor about the reasons for wanting a specific gender. They will be able to help with the process.
