The Complete Guide to Gender Selection in IVF – Facts, Myths & Costs
For many couples, starting a family includes the dream of balancing genders, especially if they already have children of one sex. With advancements in fertility science, gender selection IVF has become a topic of increasing interest. But how exactly does it work? Is it ethical? And what does it cost?
At Bourn Hall UAE, we provide transparent, science-backed guidance on all fertility options, including gender selection, delivered through professional and dependable care. In this complete guide, we break down the facts, challenge common myths, and explain the process, success rates, and costs involved.
What Is Gender Selection in IVF?
Gender selection, also known as sex selection or family balancing, is the process of choosing the biological sex of your baby before implantation during an IVF cycle.
The most accurate and commonly used method is Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy (PGT-A). During IVF, embryos are created in the lab and allowed to develop for several days. A few cells are then biopsied from each embryo and tested for chromosomal information, including the sex chromosomes (XX or XY). Based on these results, embryos of the desired gender can be selected for transfer using high quality laboratory techniques.
Why Do People Consider Gender Selection?
There are several personal and medical reasons why couples might pursue gender selection:
Family balancing:
Wanting a child of the opposite sex after having one or more children of the same gender
Preventing sex-linked genetic disorders
Such as haemophilia or Duchenne muscular dystrophy, which predominantly affect males
Cultural or emotional preferences
In some cultures, or families, a balance of genders is deeply valued
At Bourn Hall, gender selection is offered only within legal and ethical guidelines, supported by best clinical practices, and we help every couple make an informed and responsible choice.
The IVF Process with Gender Selection
Here’s how a typical IVF cycle with gender selection works:
1. Fertility Assessment:
Blood tests and scans to evaluate hormone levels and egg reserve
2. Ovarian Stimulation:
Hormonal medications to produce multiple eggs
3. Egg Retrieval:
A short, outpatient procedure under sedation
4. Fertilisation
Eggs are fertilised in the lab to create embryos
5. PGT-A Testing:
A few cells are biopsied from each embryo on day 5 or 6
6. Gender Selection
Embryos are tested for chromosomal health and sex
7. Embryo Transfer:
A healthy embryo of the desired sex is transferred into the uterus
8. Pregnancy Test:
Typically done 10–14 days after transfer
Remaining embryos can be frozen for future use, regardless of their sex, under high quality storage conditions.
Success Rates of Gender Selection IVF
PGT-A is highly accurate, with more than 99% reliability in identifying an embryo’s sex. However, it’s important to understand that:
- Not every embryo will be genetically normal or suitable for transfer
- You may not get embryos of both sexes in a single cycle
- The overall success rate also depends on age, egg quality, and uterine health
At Bourn Hall, we use the latest embryology techniques and strict laboratory standards to maximise both accuracy and pregnancy outcomes, supporting high success rates wherever clinically possible.
Myths About Gender Selection in IVF
Myth: It’s guaranteed
Reality: Gender selection is highly accurate, but embryo development and implantation still depend on biology.
Myth: It’s only for rich people
Reality: While there are costs involved, many clinics (including Bourn Hall) offer transparent pricing and flexible payment options.
Myth: It’s unethical or illegal
Reality: Gender selection is regulated in the UAE and is allowed under certain conditions, such as family balancing.
Costs of Gender Selection IVF in the UAE
The cost of gender selection in IVF varies based on individual treatment needs. While we do not display fixed prices due to medical variability, here’s what typically influences the cost:
- IVF cycle (consultations, medications, procedures)
- PGT-A testing and lab fees
- Embryo freezing and storage (if applicable)
- Number of cycles required
At Bourn Hall, we provide detailed cost breakdowns during your consultation so you know exactly what’s included, no hidden fees or surprises, reflecting our dependable pricing approach.
Legal & Ethical Considerations in the UAE
In the UAE, gender selection is permitted for:
- Medical reasons, such as avoiding hereditary conditions
- Family balancing, provided you already have at least one child
Our team strictly follows local regulations and offers full counselling to ensure decisions are ethically and emotionally informed, in line with professional standards of care.
Gender selection IVF gives hopeful parents more choice and control in family planning, but it’s a decision that should be made with the right guidance and understanding.
At Bourn Hall, we offer compassionate, evidence-based care backed by world-class technology and high quality clinical expertise. Whether you’re exploring IVF for the first time or considering gender selection, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Contact us today to book your FREE consultation and learn more about personalised IVF and gender selection services.