What Is a Gender Reveal?
A gender reveal is when parents find out and often share the baby's sex—either boy or girl—before birth. This moment is usually shared with close friends and family, sometimes in fun and creative ways like cutting a cake, popping a balloon, or even lighting fireworks.
But before the celebration, you need to know when you can find out the baby's gender—and how.
How Do Doctors Usually Tell the Baby's Gender?
Doctors can usually tell the baby's gender using an ultrasound. The most common time for this is around 18 to 20 weeks of pregnancy, during the anatomy scan. This scan checks the baby's organs, growth, and overall health—and yes, if the baby cooperates, it can also show the gender.
But for many families, waiting until the halfway mark of pregnancy feels like a long time. That's where early gender reveal options come in.
Can You Know the Baby's Gender Earlier?
Yes, you can! Thanks to modern technology, there are now ways to find out the baby's gender as early as 6 to 9 weeks into pregnancy. This is much earlier than the traditional ultrasound.
Let's take a closer look at how it works.
Methods for Early Gender Reveal
There are a few different ways to learn your baby's gender early. Each method has its timing and benefits.
1. DNA Blood Tests (As Early As 6 Weeks)
One of the most accurate early gender reveal methods is a DNA blood test, also called non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT). This test checks for pieces of the baby's DNA in the mother's blood. If the test finds a Y chromosome, it means the baby is a boy. If not, it's likely a girl.
- Timing: As early as 6 weeks
- Accuracy: Around 99%
- How it's done: A small sample of the mother's blood is taken at a clinic or lab
- Bonus: Some tests also check for other genetic conditions
2. Early Ultrasound (Around 14–16 Weeks)
Some clinics offer an early gender ultrasound around 14 to 16 weeks. This is a bit earlier than the regular anatomy scan. At this stage, if the baby is in the right position, a trained technician may be able to see the gender.
Timing: Typically around 14 to 16 weeks
Accuracy: 90% or higher, depending on the baby's position
How it's done: Just like a regular ultrasound, using a machine that shows the baby on a screen
Tip: Drinking water before the ultrasound can help get a clearer view
Which Method Should You Choose?
Choosing between a DNA test and an early ultrasound depends on a few things:
How early do you want to know? DNA testing can be done much earlier than an ultrasound
Your budget: DNA tests may cost more than early ultrasounds
What you're most comfortable with: Some parents like to wait for a visual ultrasound, while others are happy with a blood test result.
No matter which method you choose, it's important to go to a trusted provider who uses safe and accurate tools.
Is It Safe for You and Your Baby?
Yes, both early DNA testing and ultrasound are safe for you and your baby. The DNA blood test only takes a small amount of blood from the mother, and the ultrasound uses sound waves to see the baby—no radiation or harmful tools involved. However, remember that no test is 100% perfect. There's always a small chance the result could be wrong. That's why it's helpful to talk to your doctor or a certified ultrasound technician for guidance.
When Should You Book Your Appointment?
If you're in Chicago and thinking about an early gender reveal, timing is everything.
For DNA blood tests, you can book your appointment starting at 6 weeks
For ultrasound-based gender reveals, book around 14 to 16 weeks
Make sure your pregnancy is confirmed and progressing normally before scheduling these tests.
It's also a good idea to call ahead and ask about what you should do before the visit. Some places may ask you to drink water, avoid certain foods, or bring paperwork.
Conclusion
If you're too excited to wait for your 20-week appointment, early gender reveal options are a great choice. With DNA testing available as early as 6 weeks and early ultrasounds around 14 to 16 weeks, you can start planning and celebrating sooner. For families in Chicago, there's no need to wait or wonder. Tummy Vision offers trusted and friendly services to help you find out your baby's gender safely and early. Whether you want to book a quick visit or create a special reveal experience, they're here to help make the moment magical.