How Does DNA Determine Baby Gender?

Discover how DNA from parents decides the gender of a baby. Learn about the role of chromosomes in this fascinating process.

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The gender of a baby is determined by the DNA carried in the sperm from the father. Specifically, it is the combination of sex chromosomes: the mother always contributes an X chromosome, while the father can provide either an X or a Y chromosome. An XX combination results in a female (girl), and an XY combination results in a male (boy).

FAQs & Answers

  1. What chromosomes determine a boy or girl? A boy is determined by an XY chromosome combination, while a girl results from an XX combination.
  2. Can DNA from the mother affect gender? The mother always contributes an X chromosome, while the father's chromosome (X or Y) determines the gender.
  3. Is it possible to influence the gender of a baby? While there are theories and methods suggested, natural conception primarily follows the biological contributions of the parents' chromosomes.

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