Finding out if your baby is a boy or girl is one of the most exciting things that happens when you’re expecting. Read on to learn how we tell which you’re expecting.
Even for us, it is impossible to tell whether you are expecting a boy or a girl before you reach 16 weeks. Both genders look the same before this, so even if you think you spot something on an earlier scan, it won’t be what you think it is. All of us started out with a tiny genital nub, which later differentiated into the male or female organs. Some people think that they can tell which way the genital nub will develop, but no one has proven they are able to do this reliably.
We can perform a sexing scan at any time after 16 weeks. You can also find out your baby’s gender at any other ultrasound you have after this time, such as the routine abnormality scan that is performed at around 20 weeks.
Although telling whether you’re expecting a boy or girl might seem like an easy thing to do, it can be a little bit more complicated than you might think. You might not be able to do it when you look at the screen yourself. It can sometimes be difficult to get a clear view and even when we do it can still be tricky. Male and female genitals still look quite similar at 16-20+ weeks and the differences we’re looking for can be quite subtle:
The “turtle sign” is the best clue to male gender- it is the tip of the penis peeking out from behind the developing testiclesThe “hamburger sign” suggests you are having a girl- this shows as three lines along the genitaliaWe should be able to tell your baby’s gender at the sexing scan, but there is still a small chance that we might make a mistake. When this happens, it is usually because we couldn’t spot any signs of a boy so we thought your baby was a girl. It is much less likely that we will be mistaken if we tell you it’s a boy.
' Professional and reassuring '
Helen Campbell
The sonographer was ready as soon as I arrived, and she was extremely calming, personable and professional. The scan and blood test where efficient without feeling rushed and all very easy. These appointments can feel uneasy and make you feel anxious but I felt reassured and in professional hands the whole time
I saw Kate throughout my first pregnancy and am now doing so again with my second. She is absolutely amazing, she explains everything really clearly, and has answered all sorts of bizarre questions and worries I have had. On top of being clinically excellent she is also just the loveliest person and always a pleasure to see.
Sarah Elliott
We had the harmony test with the Birth Company and had a reassurance scan with sonographer Kirsty McGarry who was absolutely lovely and really put our minds at rest. We had been scared by our NHS dating scan and left feeling like there was something wrong. We explained the situation and was treated very professionally and with good care. Also speedy appointments also as I had phone in the morning and got an appointment by afternoon. So thankful.
Ashley and Tom
Really friendly, efficient service. Great experience overall. Had the Panorama. My appointment was with Kate who was absolutely fantastic. The results came really quickly. Have a comparison with private healthcare elsewhere and must say that The Birth Company was just how I would like to be treated when I pay for medical services - attentively, calmly, friendly, in a pleasant environment that doesn't look like hospital. Top marks!
Anna
' Efficient, friendly and always on hand to provide last minute appointments '
Anna s
The Birth Company has been excellent, providing timely scans and blood tests during my IVF treatment abroad. Staff are always friendly and extremely efficient. I would highly recommend coming here.
' Professional and friendly '
Lyndsey Dilla
When I first contacted the Birth Company I spoke to Danielle. She was fantastic. She went above & beyond to put me at easy & make the journey from Kent as stress free as possible. Every staff member that myself and my husband have come into contact with have been approachable, professional and friendly. Kate scanned me the first time and put me completely at easy. Lisa on reception is professional and very approachable. Highly recommended
' Highly recommended '
Emelie
Donald was so lovely! I was so nervous as I have a bad history and he was super quick and confirmed my baby's heartbeat as quickly as he could. He spent time showing me the baby and the anatomy and it was the best money I have ever spent! The reception girls were lovely too - considering they deal with babies day in day out they were super excited for me! Thank you so much one and all! If only I lived in London and could have all my scans with you!
Baker Street
Regent’s Park
Great Portland Street
Alderley Edge
