gender-selection-rules-in-different-countries

Gender Selection Rules in Different Countries

Saba Sharifi article author
Dr. Ali Bazazi Medical approver
January 8, 2025 Update date

Today by the advancements of assisted reproductive technology (ART), many couples may think about gender selection rules in different countries. Now it is possible to choose gender of the child with a noticeable reliability. There are different ways that one can do to get the desired-sex baby.

One way is terminating the pregnancy if the embryo does not have the desired sex of the parents. The other method is the use of preconceptual technique of separating X and Y sperms. This technique raises the chance of having a girl from 50% to 85% and increases the chance of having a boy from 50% to 65%.

The third way in selecting the baby’s gender is using the postconceptual method of IVF (in vitro fertilization) and PGD (preimplantation genetic diagnosis). This method offers a high chance of pregnancy with the desired-sex embryo which is nearly 100 percent. This method is recently used and it is a reliable method of selecting the gender without terminating the pregnancy.

IVF Gender selection rules vary in different countries. Gender selection is not legal all around the world; therefore, many couples may think about going through this process internationally. For foreign couples, Iran is one of the best countries for undergoing gender selection, where other assisted fertility technologies such as egg donation, microarray genetic screening, etc. are legally practiced with the same quality as the western countries. But first, let’s learn more about this subject and see the gender selection rules in different countries. GENDER SELECTION RULES IN DIFFERENT COUNTRIES

In Which Countries Is Gender Reveal Legal?

Many people mistakenly search for "gender reveal" when they are actually looking for information on "gender selection." This confusion stems from the fact that both terms involve the concept of determining the baby’s gender, but in very different ways. 

A gender reveal simply refers to the moment when the baby's gender is disclosed, often with a fun, celebratory event, and is typically determined through ultrasound or other non-invasive methods. In contrast, gender selection refers to the use of medical techniques to choose the gender of the baby before conception or implantation, which is a highly regulated process in many countries.

While gender reveal parties are generally legal and celebrated in many parts of the world, the legalities change when discussing gender selection. In most countries, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, hosting a gender reveal party is perfectly legal. 

It’s a joyful occasion where the gender of the baby is shared, often in creative ways, and it doesn’t pose any legal or ethical concerns. However, gender selection for non-medical reasons is a different matter. In these countries, gender selection is usually only allowed for medical purposes, such as avoiding sex-linked genetic disorders.

On the other hand, some countries, including India, China, and certain Middle Eastern nations, have stricter regulations around gender selection due to concerns about gender imbalances. While gender reveal parties themselves are generally not a legal issue, the use of technology to determine gender for purposes other than medical necessity can be heavily regulated or even prohibited in these regions. 

Therefore, while gender reveals are celebrated around the world, the legality of gender selection varies greatly depending on local laws and cultural attitudes toward gender and reproductive technology.

How does Sex Selection Work?

So many couples have tried to have an impact on the gender of their future baby by using different ways. They may have heard a lot of recommendations from the others about their diet, intercourse timing, intercourse positions or using chemical douches. However, these methods are all unreliable and cannot have a high success rate.

A reliable and practical sex selection works only when you have embryos through the IVF procedure. PGD or PGS are techniques for detecting genetic disorders in order to discard the embryos having genetic abnormalities and picking the desired gender to grow into the uterus.

The sex of each fetus is determined by two pairs of X and Y chromosomes. One pair is inherited from the mother and the other pair is inherited from the father. By testing a sample group of cells belonging to the embryo, its chromosomal makeup would be detected. Then just the desired-sex embryo will be implanted into the uterus.

Gender Selection Reasons

gender selection is a controversial subject all around the world. There can be two main reasons for doing this process: Medical based and Non-medical based reasons. Some couples go through a gender selection process because they want to avoid genetic diseases related to a certain gender. For instance, the intended parents may carry genes for hemophilia or muscular dystrophy which can only affect male babies. In this condition, they can often legally pursue a gender selection process in order to have a baby girl because they have a medical reason. Some other couples may use gender selection techniques for non-medical reasons like fulfilling their personal preference or as a way of balancing their family. For example, they may have two girls and prefer to have a boy as their third kid, or they might be more comfortable with raising a kid with a specific gender. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared an objection toward gender selection for non-medical reasons because this action can cause moral, legal, and social conflicts. They discuss that manipulating the natural sex ratio can lead to gender imbalance and possible gender discrimination by devaluing females in some nations. Nevertheless, this method also has its own advocators. They say that mankind should have liberty in choosing their own reproductive path. Gender selection helps people wisely choose the desired sex for their baby so that they could be more comfortable raising them.
 
Countries Allowing Gender Selection for Both Medical and Non-Medical Reasons

IVF Gender Selection Legal Countries 2025

Which countries allow gender selection? IVF Gender selection rules are different worldwide. The prohibition of sex selection in some countries has caused a significant number of couples who are looking for sex selection services abroad. The circumstance in which a number of people are travelling abroad in order to undergo gender selection, egg donation process and other infertility treatments is called the “Reproductive Tourism”.

Where sex selection is banned, people usually travel to countries such as the United States, Mexico, Italy, Cyprus and many Asian countries like Iran and Thailand. When you want to choose a suitable destination for sex selection, you can consult with your local fertility specialist for getting some advice about reliable clinics before taking any actions.

 It is recommended to choose a safe country in which the costs are more affordable at the same time "cheapest country for gender selection". Iran can be named as a great option regarding the high-quality facilities and affordable prices. Our experts in TebMedTourism Co. can guide you to get a precise result on the sex selection process.

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Gender Selection Rules in the United States

Gender selection is a controversial topic in the United States, and the laws regarding it vary from state to state. In some states, it is legal to use gender selection for medical reasons, such as to avoid passing on genetic disorders. However, in other states, it is illegal to use gender selection for non-medical reasons, such as to choose the sex of a child for personal preference. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) has issued guidelines stating that gender selection should only be used for medical reasons and not for personal preference. The ASRM also recommends that gender selection should only be performed by qualified medical professionals and that patients should receive counseling before making a decision.  

Gender Selection Rules in Iran

Where is gender selection legal? Gender selection is legal in Iran and is commonly used for medical reasons such as preventing genetic diseases and also for non-medical reasons such as family balancing or preference for a specific gender. Sex selection in Iran has a very high success rate which is close to 100 percent. The process involves IVF with PGD, and the embryos are screened for the desired gender before being implanted in the mother's uterus. By using modern reproductive technologies, the presence of top physicians and embryologists, and the most affordable costs of medical and non-medical services, Iran is one of the best destinations for gender selection. Our experts in TebMedTourism Co. can guide you to get a precise result on the sex selection process.

Gender Selection Rules in Thailand

Thailand is among the countries where gender reveal is legal. The Medical Council of Thailand regulates the use of gender selection for medical reasons and requires that it be conducted by licensed medical professionals in approved clinics. In Thailand, it is illegal to use gender selection techniques for non-medical reasons. The law states that any medical procedure involving gender selection can only be performed if it is necessary for medical reasons, such as to prevent the transmission of a genetic disorder to the child. Violation of the rules can result in legal action and revocation of medical licenses. Thailand takes a strict stance on gender selection to prevent any potential negative consequences, such as gender imbalance or discrimination The law also prohibits any form of discrimination based on gender, and mandates equal rights and opportunities for boys and girls. In some cases, couples may try to use traditional methods, such as timing intercourse or altering their diet, in an attempt to influence the gender of their child. However, these methods have no scientific basis and are not reliable.

Gender Selection Rules in Mexico

Mexico is among the countries that allow gender selection for medical reasons, such as preventing the transmission of a genetic disorder that is linked to a specific gender. The Mexican Bioethics Law prohibits the use of gender selection for non-medical purposes, such as social or cultural reasons. However, there have been reports of clinics and doctors in Mexico offering gender selection services for non-medical reasons. These practices are illegal and can be subject to penalties and sanctions by the Mexican authorities. The Mexican government has taken steps to regulate and enforce laws around gender selection, but there is still work to be done to ensure that these practices are not taking place.  

Countries Allowing Gender Selection for Medical Reasons

 

Where is Gender Selection Legal in Europe?

The legality of gender selection varies by country in Europe. In some countries, gender selection is prohibited by law, while in others it is allowed for certain specific reasons. In general, most European countries prohibit gender selection for non-medical reasons. However, some countries, such as Belgium, Denmark, Greece, and Switzerland, allow gender selection for medical reasons, such as when a genetic disorder is linked to a specific gender. It's important to note that the laws and regulations regarding gender selection may be subject to change, and it's always best to consult with a qualified medical professional or legal expert for the most up-to-date information.

IVF Gender Selection Illegal Countries 2025

Gender reveal is illegal in which country? Sex selection is illegal in many countries. Among 36 countries that have policies about sex selection, none of them permits it clearly. Five countries ban the process completely and 31 other countries ban it for non-medical reasons. But which countries have banned gender reveal? The United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, India, and Vietnam are among the countries where gender reveal is illegal with the exception of using it for the medical reasons. Their position regarding this technique is that it is justified as long as it is for the child’s best interest to be born with a specific sex. China and India are two other countries where sex selection is illegal. But why should the process of selecting the gender of the child be widely illegal around the world? The answer is probably related to the existence of the risks of undergoing sex selection which may lead to an undesirable genetic engineering and ultimately disadvantage the human race in the future.

Gender Selection Rules in the United Kingdom

The UK takes a strict stance on sex selection to prevent any potential negative consequences. In the United Kingdom, it is illegal to use gender selection techniques for non-medical reasons. The Human Fertilization and Embryology Act 1990 (as amended in 2008) prohibits the use of gender selection for social or cultural reasons. The act allows gender selection only for medical reasons, such as to prevent the transmission of a genetic disorder that is linked to a specific gender. The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing fertility treatments in the UK. The HFEA requires clinics to obtain a license to provide fertility treatments, and any clinic offering gender selection must demonstrate that it is being done only for medical reasons.

Gender Selection Rules in Australia

In Australia, gender selection is also only allowed for medical reasons, such as genetic disorders that are linked to a specific gender. The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) has developed guidelines for assisted reproductive technologies, including gender selection. The guidelines state that gender selection can only be used for medical reasons. The process must be conducted by licensed medical professionals in approved clinics, and the use of gender selection for non-medical reasons is prohibited. Australia also has strict regulations on assisted reproductive technologies to ensure the safety and well-being of all parties involved. The most commonly used method for gender selection in Australia is IVF with PGD, which involves the screening of embryos for genetic abnormalities and selecting the ones with the desired gender.

Gender Selection Rules in Canada

In Canada, the use of gender selection is legal only when it is for medical purposes and the use of gender selection for non-medical reasons is banned. The Canadian government takes a strict stance on gender selection, and violation of the rules can result in legal action and revocation of medical licenses. The country also has strict regulations on assisted reproductive technologies to ensure the safety and well-being of all parties involved.
 
Countries Prohibiting Gender Selection

Is IVF Gender Selection Legal in Iran?

Iran is among the IVF gender selection legal countries where fertility centers provide medical services to many couples every year. In this country, gender selection is completely legal. Other assisted reproductive technologies such as ICSI, egg donation, embryo donation, PGS or chromosomal microarray screening, surrogacy, etc. are all offered in Iran’s fertility centers legally at their highest quality which is comparable with western countries. Iranian fertility specialists have extensive experience in diagnosing fertility issues and offering the easiest way to treat them. They are among the top physicians in the world who precisely evaluate your medical and psychological condition to find you the best treatment plan during the minimum amount of time so that get you the best result which is expanding your family. Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) through IVF is provided in Iran at the cheapest cost which is only $6000.

The Bottom Line

  As mentioned before, there are two main reasons for the use of gender selection. If there is a medical reason, it is best to take advantage of the PGD technology with the help of the IVF process to make sure your baby will not face certain genetic disorders just because of their gender. However, in using sex selection for non-medical reasons, besides the various rules available in different countries, there can be moral issues that are better to be considered before taking any serious decision about that. TebMedTourism has experience of hundreds of successful gender selection cases. We are the only healthcare facilitator in Iran that paves the way for our clients from the starting point which is a simple consultation to the time of delivering children and undergoing the legal procedure (especially for surrogacy cases). We offer you services like embryo thawing for the time you have extra embryos and want to keep them for future use. Anyway, gender selection is one of the new fertility technologies that can help mankind have more control over their own reproduction plan and we must respect people’s reasons for choosing this technology. If you have more questions on this subject, consult with our doctors free of charge through WhatsApp now.

FAQ

We have worked to give you clear and detailed information about the rules for gender selection in different countries. In this section, we will answer some of the most common questions you have asked. At TebMedTourism, we are proud to be your partner in sharing accurate and helpful information about infertility treatments.

Which Countries Allow IVF Gender Selection?

IVF gender selection, also known as family balancing, is a medical procedure that allows parents to choose the sex of their child before conception. This practice is legal in several countries, although the regulations surrounding it vary. Some countries, such as the United States, allow IVF gender selection for non-medical reasons, while others restrict it to cases where it is used to prevent sex-linked genetic disorders.

In Europe, countries like Spain and the Czech Republic permit gender selection for medical reasons, but non-medical gender selection is not allowed. On the other hand, countries like India and Thailand have fewer regulations, making them popular destinations for couples seeking gender selection for non-medical purposes. However, these countries may have specific guidelines and ethical considerations regarding the practice, especially when it comes to balancing the number of male and female births.

Iran is another country where IVF gender selection is permitted, and it is one of the most affordable destinations for such services. The legal framework around gender selection in Iran allows it to be used for family balancing, and many couples from around the world travel there for this procedure. However, as with all fertility treatments, it is important to research the legal, ethical, and medical guidelines of each country before pursuing gender selection through IVF.

Is Gender Selection Legal in Us?

Gender selection is a controversial topic in the United States, and the laws regarding it vary from state to state. In some states, it is legal to use gender selection for medical reasons, such as to avoid passing on genetic disorders. However, in other states, it is illegal to use gender selection for non-medical reasons, such as to choose the sex of a child for personal preference. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) has issued guidelines stating that gender selection should only be used for medical reasons and not for personal preference. The ASRM also recommends that gender selection should only be performed by qualified medical professionals and that patients should receive counseling before making a decision.  

Is Gender Selection Legal in Pakistan?

In Pakistan, gender selection through IVF is not legally allowed for non-medical reasons, such as family balancing. The practice is strictly regulated by the government, and while assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like IVF are permitted, gender selection is generally prohibited unless it is done to avoid the transmission of sex-linked genetic disorders, such as hemophilia or muscular dystrophy. In these cases, gender selection may be considered as part of a medical intervention to prevent certain inherited conditions.

The ethical and cultural considerations surrounding gender selection in Pakistan play a significant role in the regulation of the procedure. Pakistan is a conservative country where cultural norms heavily influence the acceptance of gender selection for reasons other than medical necessity. The law, therefore, ensures that IVF gender selection is restricted and carefully monitored to prevent misuse.

Couples who seek gender selection for family balancing in Pakistan may face legal and ethical challenges. As a result, many families from Pakistan often travel abroad to countries where gender selection for non-medical purposes is permitted, such as India or Iran, where more flexible regulations exist.

Is Gender Selection Legal in Canada?

In Canada, gender selection through IVF is not legally permitted for non-medical reasons. The Assisted Human Reproduction Act (AHRA) explicitly prohibits using assisted reproductive technologies, including gender selection, solely for family balancing or personal preference. The procedure is allowed only in cases where it is necessary to avoid the transmission of serious sex-linked genetic disorders.

This legal restriction reflects Canada's commitment to ethical considerations surrounding gender selection. The government aims to prevent potential societal imbalances, such as gender discrimination, that might arise if the procedure were allowed for non-medical purposes. As a result, Canadian fertility clinics strictly adhere to these regulations and do not offer gender selection for reasons unrelated to medical necessity.

Despite the restrictions, some Canadian couples seeking gender selection for family balancing choose to travel abroad to countries where the procedure is legal, such as the United States or certain destinations in Europe or Asia. However, they should be aware of the costs and ethical implications associated with seeking treatment outside Canada's regulated framework.

Is Gender Selection Legal in Saudi Arabia?

in Saudi Arabia, gender selection through IVF is legally permitted but strictly regulated. The practice is allowed primarily for medical reasons, such as preventing the transmission of serious sex-linked genetic disorders. Couples must obtain approval from the relevant medical authorities, and the procedure is typically carried out under close ethical and religious oversight, in line with Islamic principles.

For non-medical reasons, such as family balancing, the legal framework is less clear. While some clinics may offer gender selection services under specific circumstances, it is not openly encouraged. Religious and cultural norms in Saudi Arabia emphasize the importance of ethical considerations and discourage practices that could lead to societal imbalances or gender discrimination.

Couples interested in gender selection in Saudi Arabia should consult with local fertility clinics to understand the legal and ethical requirements. It is essential to ensure that the procedure complies with both Saudi law and Islamic ethical guidelines. Those seeking gender selection for non-medical purposes often explore options in other countries where such practices are more openly allowed.

Is Gender Selection Legal in Malaysia?

In Malaysia, gender selection through IVF is not legally permitted for non-medical purposes such as family balancing. The country's regulations on assisted reproductive technologies are influenced by ethical, cultural, and religious considerations. Gender selection is only allowed in cases where it is necessary to prevent serious sex-linked genetic diseases. This restriction aligns with Malaysia's commitment to maintaining ethical practices in fertility treatments.

The use of gender selection for personal preference is considered controversial and is not supported by the majority of fertility clinics in Malaysia. Clinics that offer IVF services are closely monitored to ensure compliance with the country’s medical and ethical guidelines. Patients seeking fertility treatments are often counseled to understand the legal limitations and the potential implications of using advanced reproductive technologies.

Couples who wish to pursue gender selection for non-medical reasons often look to other countries where the procedure is allowed. However, it is important for them to consider the ethical, financial, and logistical aspects of traveling abroad for this purpose while respecting the local laws in Malaysia.

Is Gender Selection Legal in India?

In India, gender selection through IVF is strictly prohibited for non-medical purposes under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act. The law was enacted to combat gender discrimination and address the cultural preference for male children, which has historically led to a gender imbalance in the population. As a result, any attempt to determine or select the sex of a child before birth, including through IVF, is illegal and punishable by law.

Indian fertility clinics are required to comply with this regulation, and the use of technologies such as preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) for the purpose of gender selection is not allowed. The law ensures that assisted reproductive technologies are used ethically and strictly for medical purposes, such as detecting and preventing serious genetic disorders, without encouraging practices that could perpetuate societal inequalities.

Couples seeking gender selection for family balancing may explore options in other countries where the procedure is legal and regulated, such as the United States or Iran. However, they must be mindful of the ethical and cultural implications of pursuing such treatments abroad, as well as the legal restrictions within India itself.

Is Gender Selection Legal in UK?

In the United Kingdom, gender selection through IVF is only legal for medical reasons, such as preventing the transmission of serious sex-linked genetic disorders. The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), which regulates fertility treatments in the UK, strictly prohibits gender selection for non-medical purposes, including family balancing. Clinics are not allowed to use technologies like preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) to select embryos based on sex unless there is a clear medical need.

This restriction reflects the UK's ethical stance on assisted reproductive technologies, aiming to prevent potential societal issues such as gender discrimination or imbalance. Fertility clinics in the UK operate under strict guidelines to ensure compliance with these regulations. Patients must provide a valid medical justification for any procedure involving the selection of embryos based on sex.

Couples interested in gender selection for non-medical reasons often look to countries where such practices are permitted, like the United States or certain destinations in Asia. However, they should consider the ethical implications, costs, and legal requirements of seeking this treatment abroad, as it is strictly regulated within the UK.

Is Gender Selection Legal in Denmark?

Gender selection for non-medical reasons is not legal in Denmark. The Danish healthcare system and legal framework strictly regulate reproductive technologies, including in vitro fertilization (IVF) and related procedures. Gender selection is permitted only in cases where it is necessary to prevent serious hereditary diseases linked to a specific gender.

The Danish Act on Assisted Reproduction ensures that medical procedures, including gender selection, are conducted ethically and within the law. Couples or individuals who wish to pursue gender selection for non-medical reasons are typically advised to look into legal and ethical options in other countries where such services might be available.

For individuals considering gender selection for medical reasons in Denmark, consultations with healthcare professionals and genetic counselors are essential. They can guide patients through the process, ensuring that all actions align with the legal and ethical standards set forth by Danish authorities.

2025-01-08
Gender Selection Rules in Different Countries
Infertility Treatments

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