At Conceptions Fertility Center, we offer a range of fertility and reproductive services, including gender selection. Also known as sex selection, this procedure allows parents to intentionally choose the biological sex of their offspring using assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Gender selection can be done using two common techniques: Sperm Sorting and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD). Both can be used in our state-of-the-art IVF laboratory, enhancing the possibilities of successful outcomes.

Sperm Sorting involves processing a sperm sample to separate ‘X’ and ‘Y’ chromosomes. It’s based on the principle that sperm carrying the Y chromosome (leading to a male child) are lighter and faster than those carrying the X chromosome (leading to a female child). The desired sperm is then used for artificial insemination or IVF.

Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD), on the other hand, allows for the creation of embryos through IVF, with a single cell extracted from each for gender determination. This method is not only highly accurate for gender selection, but also allows for the detection of genetic disorders before implantation occurs.

At Conceptions Fertility Center, we understand the sensitive nature of gender selection. It’s used for various reasons, from personal preferences and family balancing to avoiding sex-linked genetic diseases. However, we also recognize the ethical concerns surrounding this practice, including potential sex discrimination and devaluation, and the concept of a “designer baby.”

We emphasize that our medical team is committed to providing ethical, informed care. We recommend gender selection primarily for medical reasons, such as preventing sex-linked genetic diseases.

The legality of gender selection varies by location. At Conceptions Fertility Center, we adhere strictly to all applicable laws and regulations. We encourage individuals and couples considering gender selection to discuss with our healthcare providers and to fully understand the potential implications.

Gender selection, also known as prenatal sex selection or sex selection, involves several medical procedures, each with its own cost implications.

Factors Influencing Costs:

● Method: We offer two primary methods of gender selection: In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) with Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) and sperm sorting (MicroSort and Ericsson Method). Sperm sorting, though a less expensive alternative, is not currently provided at our facility.

● Clinic: At Conceptions Fertility Center, we pride ourselves on our reputation for excellence and personalized care, which may impact the cost of procedures. The individual’s specific medical needs and the number of cycles required can also influence the final expense.

● Location: As we are based in Utah, the costs of gender selection here may differ from those in other geographic locations.

● Additional Procedures: If additional procedures are required, such as IVF, the overall cost will significantly increase.

In most cases, gender selection procedures, including those at Conceptions Fertility Center, are not covered by health insurance companies as they are considered elective and not medically necessary.

At Conceptions Fertility Center, we offer gender selection through techniques such as Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) and sperm sorting. These services are often part of our In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatments. PGD tests embryos for genetic abnormalities before they are implanted in the womb and can also determine the sex of the embryo. On the other side, sperm sorting increases the likelihood of having a kid of a certain sex by separating sperm into X and Y-chromosome-bearing sperm.

While these procedures are primarily intended to detect and prevent genetic diseases, they can also be used for family balancing – the practice of selecting the sex of a child to achieve a more balanced gender ratio in a family.

In line with the guidelines of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), Conceptions Fertility Center discourages sex selection for non-medical reasons due to potential risks of gender discrimination and the potential to undermine the parent-child relationship. We recommend gender selection only in cases where there is a known medical condition linked to the sex chromosomes, such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia or Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

As a responsible fertility clinic, we screen patients for genetic and medical reasons before performing gender selection procedures. It’s recommended to consult with our healthcare providers or a legal expert, as individual states may have their own regulations or restrictions regarding gender selection.

It’s crucial to dispel some of the myths surrounding natural methods of gender selection. Common beliefs, such as timing intercourse with ovulation, modifying diet to favor either male or female sperm, or using certain sexual positions, lack scientific proof. Despite anecdotal evidence, multiple studies have established that the gender of a baby is not influenced by these factors.

For couples who are unable to conceive naturally or have a strong desire for gender selection, our advanced Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) can provide potential solutions. We specialize in two main techniques:

● Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD): This technique involves testing an IVF embryo for specific genetic conditions before implantation. During this process, the embryo’s gender can be determined, allowing parents to choose the gender of the embryos to be implanted.

● Sperm Sorting: Although still in the research phase, this method sorts sperm based on the theory that X chromosome sperm (resulting in a girl) are heavier and slower than Y chromosome sperm (resulting in a boy). However, this method is less successful and less widely available than PGD.

The prospect of choosing your child’s gender brings up important ethical considerations. These include potential societal imbalances or discrimination, reproductive autonomy, and potential medical implications.

While total control over your baby’s gender may still be aspirational, advancements in ART at Conceptions Fertility Center are bringing us closer to this possibility. We encourage couples to understand the available options, their limitations, and the necessary ethical considerations. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We serve patients from Provo UT, Orem UT, Mapleton UT, Vineyard UT, Highland UT, North Logan UT, Hyde Park UT, Smithfield UT, Benson UT, Logan UT, and surrounding areas.