Can I Request a Specific Gender Scan? Gender Reveals with Ultrasound: Can You Ask for It?

Many expecting parents look forward to learning their baby’s gender—it’s one of the most exciting milestones of pregnancy. Ultrasound technology makes this possible, offering a safe and accurate way to see how your baby is developing while also revealing whether you’re expecting a boy or a girl.

What Is a Baby Gender Scan?

A baby gender ultrasound is a specialized imaging exam that uses sound waves to create real-time images of your baby. During the scan, the technician or sonographer looks for physical markers that indicate gender—typically visible between 18 to 22 weeks during an anatomy ultrasound appointment. This is often when parents find out the baby’s sex for the first time.

Some clinics also offer an early gender determination scan, sometimes as soon as 14 to 16 weeks, though results can be less certain this early.

Can You Request a Gender Scan?

Yes. Most ultrasound clinics allow you to request a pregnancy gender reveal ultrasound, especially if you’re attending a private facility. When booking, simply mention that you’d like to know your baby’s gender so the sonographer can make it part of your session.

However, in public or medical settings, the primary purpose of an anatomy ultrasound is to check the baby’s growth, development, and overall health—not to determine gender. The technician may tell you the baby’s sex only if they have a clear view and it’s within clinic policy.

What to Expect During a Gender Ultrasound

If you schedule a private ultrasound for gender reveal, here’s what typically happens:

• Timing: Usually between 16–22 weeks for best visibility.
  
  

• Clothing: You’ll lie comfortably as the sonographer moves the transducer over your belly.
  
  

• Images: You’ll see your baby’s movements, heartbeat, and—if visible—gender indicators.
  
  

• Extras: Many clinics offer 3D or 4D baby ultrasound booking options so parents can capture detailed images or videos for keepsakes.
  
  

How Accurate Are Gender Reveal Ultrasounds?

When done after 18 weeks, an ultrasound gender scan can be over 95% accurate. Accuracy depends on factors like:

• Baby’s position
  
  

• Technician experience
  
  

• Equipment quality
  
  

• Stage of pregnancy
  
  

If your baby is curled up or facing away, the sonographer may not be able to confirm gender that day. In such cases, you might be invited to book a follow-up baby gender ultrasound for better clarity.

When to Book and Where to Go

Parents often search for “baby gender ultrasound near me” or “gender ultrasound clinic near me” to find local options. Many private imaging centres offer same-day or next-day appointments, providing flexible scheduling around your medical scans.

If you want to combine medical and gender scans, you can ask your healthcare provider during your anatomy ultrasound appointment about clinic policies on gender disclosure.

Understanding Gender Scan Etiquette

When asking for a gender scan, remember that the sonographer’s main focus is your baby’s health. It’s important to be respectful if visibility is poor or if the clinic has policies that delay gender disclosure. For parents planning a pregnancy gender reveal ultrasound, consider waiting until the anatomy scan confirms accuracy before sharing the big news.

Key Takeaways

• Ultrasounds can safely and accurately determine a baby’s gender starting around 18 weeks.
  
  

• You can request a gender ultrasound, but availability depends on clinic policies.
  
  

• Private clinics often offer 3D/4D baby ultrasound booking options for clearer images.
  
  

• Gender scans are an exciting part of pregnancy but should never replace medical evaluations.
  
  

Transparency Statement: While Canadian Diagnostic Network provides specialized care, many reputable clinics offer similar treatments. Always seek multiple opinions before deciding on treatment.

Ready to schedule your baby gender ultrasound in Ottawa? Book your appointment with CDNcare today and enjoy a professional, caring experience from start to finish.

More Information:

https://www.cancercareontario.ca/en/cancer-care-ontario/programs/screening-programs/ontario-breast-obsp

https://oarinfo.ca/patient-info/radiology-medical-services/ultrasound