Guessing the baby's gender can be both cozy and nerve-wracking, but many also want a more certain answer. The question "when can you see the gender" is practically about when the gender can be assessed by a scan, and what can make the answer more or less clear. Here's a practical guide to what you can expect and how to best prepare.
When can the gender be seen during a scan?
In Denmark, gender is typically easiest to assess with an ultrasound scan when the pregnancy is advanced enough for the external sexual characteristics to be more visible. It's important to know that even when the gestational week is "right," it can still be difficult to see the gender if the baby is in an unfavorable position, or if the image quality is not optimal.
As a rule of thumb: the further along in the pregnancy, the better the chance of a clear answer. If you want an answer, you can ask the sonographer what they can realistically assess from the images at that moment.
Gender scan and anomaly scan: What's the difference?
There are different types of scans. Some scans have a specific purpose (e.g., to assess the baby's development), while others are performed specifically with the desire to look for gender.
Practical advice before you book or ask
Ask yourselves:
- Is it important for you to know the gender as early as possible, or are you okay with waiting until it's more clearly visible?
- Do you want an assessment "if it can be seen," or do you only want an answer if it's very certain?
This can reduce disappointment if you agree beforehand on how you'll handle a "we can't see it today."
Why can't you always see the gender, even when you're far along?
It's completely normal not to get a clear answer. This can be due to, among other things:
- The baby's position (e.g., legs together or back turned)
- Movement during the scan
- Placenta placement and general imaging conditions
- What you see can be interpreted differently if the angle is not optimal
If you get an assessment, feel free to ask how certain the assessment is and if there's anything that suggests waiting and looking again later.
How reliable is the result when you are told the gender?
A scan answer is an assessment based on what can be seen on the screen. The better the image and the more clearly the baby is positioned, the more certain it typically becomes. Conversely, even small uncertainties can mean that the answer should be taken with reservations.
What can you do to have a good experience?
- Come with realistic expectations: You won't always get an answer the first time.
- Write down questions in advance, e.g., "can you explain what you're seeing?"
- Talk afterward: Some feel relieved, others are surprised, and both are normal.
What do you do if you don't want to know the gender?
If you prefer that the gender not be mentioned, state it clearly before the scan begins. It can be a good idea to repeat it if personnel change during the process. You can also ask if there are parts of the examination where you should look away from the screen if the gender suddenly becomes visible.
Relevant products while you wait and your body changes
While you wait for the scan results (or choose not to get them), it can be nice to focus on what you can feel in your body right now: support, comfort, and peace in everyday life.
Many pregnant women benefit from a bra without underwire, as metal underwires can press and potentially irritate breast tissue as the body changes. A supportive alternative is a model with gel support, which provides shape and support without blocking. You can see the Gel-Support® maternity and nursing bra here.