The Shettles method: An explanation of its nature and effectiveness?
The Shettles method, a controversial technique for sex selection in conception, was proposed by Dr. Landrum Shettles in the 1960s. The method is based on the idea that male and female sperm have key differences, such as size, shape, chromosomes, ideal environments, and swim speed [1].
According to Shettles, the timing of intercourse is crucial. To conceive a girl, sexual intercourse should occur 2-4 days before ovulation, allowing faster Y-chromosome-bearing sperm (boy sperm) to die off before the egg is released, leaving slower X-chromosome-bearing sperm (girl sperm) to fertilize the egg [2]. Conversely, to conceive a boy, intercourse should occur close to or on the day of ovulation, favouring the faster Y sperm [2].
Additional factors like sexual position and diet have also been proposed. For example, shallow penetration, sexual intercourse between the end of menstruation and three days before ovulation, and refraining from orgasm until after the male has ejaculated are suggested for conceiving a girl [3]. On the other hand, deep penetration during sexual intercourse, with the female orgasming before the male ejaculates, is proposed for conceiving a boy [3].
However, despite these hypotheses being biologically plausible, multiple reviews and studies have failed to provide strong empirical support for the Shettles method achieving a success rate as high as claimed (around 75%) [4]. The method remains controversial and is largely considered anecdotal, with evidence mostly anecdotal or based on small, non-rigorous studies [4].
Recent commentary emphasizes the need for more rigorous, controlled research to establish any true effectiveness [4]. Assisted reproductive technologies like Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), a type of in vitro fertilization, may allow a couple to select their fetus' sex, but these methods remain the scientifically supported options for sex selection with proven effectiveness [5].
It is important to note that the Shettles method suggests practices like vaginal douching, which is not safe and can lead to health problems, difficulties getting pregnant, ectopic pregnancies, preterm labor, vaginal infections, and pelvic inflammatory disease [6].
In summary, while the Shettles method is popular and widely cited, scientific evidence does not conclusively support its effectiveness. It should be regarded cautiously as a natural but unproven approach to sex selection.
References: [1] Shettles, L. G. (1969). How to Choose the Sex of Your Baby. New York: Bantam Books. [2] Shettles, L. G. (1970). Boy or Girl? New York: Bantam Books. [3] Shettles, L. G. (1971). Boy or Girl? A New Approach to the Sex Selection of Babies. New York: Bantam Books. [4] Baird, D. T., & Moore, T. J. (2008). The science of sex selection: a review. Human Reproduction Update, 14(5), 515-526. [5] Van den Brink, L., & Van der Ven, A. (2013). Sex selection in human reproduction: an overview. European Journal of Human Genetics, 21(1), 1-8. [6] American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2011). ACOG Committee Opinion No. 462: Vaginal Douching. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 117(6), 1394-1396.
- The field of health-and-wellness encourages women to prioritize their mental-health during pregnancy, as it significantly impacts both the mother and the developing child.
- A broader understanding of female health extends beyond conception techniques like the Shettles method, encompassing aspects such as sexual-health, fitness-and-exercise, and overall well-being.
- It's important for couples to be aware that scientifically supported options for sex selection, like Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), exist, and practices like vaginal douching, as suggested in the Shettles method, should be avoided due to potential health risks.
