When you’re expecting a baby, advice and opinions seem to appear everywhere – from well-meaning relatives to strangers in the supermarket. Among the most entertaining are the classic old wives’ tales that claim to predict whether you’re having a boy or a girl.

These myths have been passed down for generations. They aren’t based on science, but they are part of the shared culture of pregnancy – little rituals of guessing, wondering, and imagining the tiny person you haven’t met yet. Some parents say their predictions turned out to be uncannily accurate, while others laugh about how wildly wrong they were. Either way, they offer a playful way to pass the time during those long months of waiting.

Here are five of the most well-known gender prediction tales based on how mum’s body is changing during pregnancy.

Gender Prediction Myths Bump Shape

They say if your bump sticks out low and to the front, you’re having a boy. If it’s higher up or more spread around your waist, it’s a girl.

Totally adorable theory—but it’s really more to do with your body type and baby’s position than anything else!

Gender Prediction Myths Sweet or Savoury

Are you reaching for chocolate and strawberries? That’s supposed to mean a girl.  Craving crisps or something salty? Must be a boy.

This one varies wildly between mums—but it’s always fun to track.

Gender Prediction Myths Morning Sickness

If you’re hit hard with nausea in the early weeks, it’s often said to be a girl.  If you sail through with little to no sickness, that suggests a boy.

Hormones do play a part, but not always in predictable ways!

Gender Prediction Myths Heart Rate

This one’s heard a lot at scans!  If baby’s heartbeat is over 140 bpm, it’s meant to mean a girl. Under 140? A boy.

Let’s just say, midwives tend to smile politely and carry on.

Gender Prediction Myths Skin

If your skin is glowing, it’s said you’re having a boy.  If your face breaks out? Apparently your daughter is “stealing your beauty.”

Is it true? Maybe not. But it’s a great excuse to treat yourself to a nice moisturiser.

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can old wives' tales predict your baby's gender

Of course, none of these are reliable ways to determine your baby’s sex – only medical tests or your baby’s arrival can do that for certain. But these little traditions endure because they turn waiting into something more interactive and fun. They invite family members to join in the excitement and help create stories you’ll remember long after pregnancy is over.

Whether your baby proved the myths right or completely surprised everyone, it can be lovely to look back and remember all the guessing, dreaming, and anticipation before they arrived.

Tiny Humans, Big Facts – Want Some More?

Looking for gentle guidance and little-known tips to help you navigate pregnancy and the early days with your newborn? Tiny Humans, Big Facts is a growing collection of bitesize blog posts, packed with insight from the studio—covering everything from pregnancy pointers to baby-soothing techniques and behind-the-scenes secrets. Whether you’re expecting, just starting out, or simply curious, there’s always something helpful to discover.

Maternity Photography in East Grinstead

My maternity sessions are very flexible affairs with my studio booked for an hour so we have plenty of time to create a really varied image gallery. You’re invited to select up to three backdrops and include up to three outfit changes so you can mix and match styles to create the perfect set of pregnancy memories.

I recommend booking your session between 28-36 weeks so you’re still comfortable and you’re also welcome to borrow any of my gorgeous maternity photo shoot dresses while you’re in the studio.  You select your pictures and order any more that you would like directly from your online gallery, there’s no sales or viewing session to attend.