Fetal gender: preferences, predictions, and its impact on women's sexuality, physical activity, and well-being during pregnancy

This study involving 320 women examined how parental preferences and predictions about fetal sex, influenced by factors like education and previous children, affect pregnancy experiences. Most participants had no preference for fetal sex, but among those who did, women preferred girls more than their partners. Women with higher education preferred girls, while those with lower education predicted fetal sex more accurately. Pregnancy led to significant declines in sexual activity and physical activity, with no major differences between first-time and experienced mothers. Common symptoms included low energy and poor sleep, with fetal sex having limited impact, except for concentration issues with female fetuses and hair loss with male fetuses. The study suggests that discussing expectations and changes during pregnancy can aid in providing better prenatal support.