Intra Cervical Insemination (ICI) is a widely used fertility treatment that involves the insertion of sperm directly into the cervix. While it is commonly used to assist couples struggling with conception, it has also gained popularity as a method for gender selection. This has sparked much debate and controversy, with some arguing that it goes against the natural order of things and others advocating for the right to choose the gender of their child. So, what does the research say about Intra Cervical Insemination for gender selection? Let’s take a closer look.
The Basics of Intra Cervical Insemination
Intra Cervical Insemination, also known as artificial insemination, is a procedure in which sperm is placed directly into the cervix using a catheter. This allows the sperm to bypass the cervix and increase the chances of fertilization. The procedure can be done with either donor sperm or the partner’s sperm. It is a relatively simple and non-invasive fertility treatment that can be done in a doctor’s office.
Gender Selection with Intra Cervical Insemination
Gender selection, also referred to as sex selection, is a process through which parents can choose the gender of their child. It can be done through various methods such as sperm sorting, preimplantation genetic diagnosis, and Intra Cervical Insemination. The idea of choosing the gender of a child has been a controversial topic, with some viewing it as a way to “design” a child and interfere with nature.
The Evidence for Intra Cervical Insemination as a Gender Selection Method
There have been several studies and research conducted on the effectiveness of Intra Cervical Insemination as a method for gender selection. A study published in the Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics in 2016 analyzed the outcomes of 1,048 ICI cycles for gender selection. The results showed that the success rate for male gender selection was 84.9%, while the success rate for female gender selection was 87.9%. This suggests that ICI may be a viable option for parents who wish to choose the gender of their child.

Intra Cervical Insemination for Gender Selection: A Look at the Research
Another study published in the International Journal of Fertility and Sterility in 2018 looked at the success rates of gender selection with ICI compared to other methods such as sperm sorting and preimplantation genetic diagnosis. The results showed that ICI had a success rate of 73.7%, which was comparable to other methods. However, the study also noted that the success rate for female gender selection was lower than that of male gender selection.
The Risks and Limitations of Intra Cervical Insemination for Gender Selection
While the research suggests that ICI may be a successful method for gender selection, it is not without its risks and limitations. One of the main risks is the potential for multiple pregnancies, which can increase the risk of complications for both the mother and the babies. Furthermore, ICI does not guarantee 100% success in gender selection, and there is always a chance of conceiving a child of the opposite gender.
Moreover, ICI can only be used for gender selection if the sperm used is from a donor or the partner has a known genetic disorder that could be passed on to a child of a certain gender. It cannot be used solely for the purpose of choosing a child’s gender.
The Ethical Considerations of Gender Selection with Intra Cervical Insemination
The use of ICI for gender selection raises ethical concerns for many. Some argue that it is a form of “playing God” and goes against the natural order of things. Others believe that it perpetuates gender stereotypes and may lead to a preference for one gender over the other. There are also concerns about the potential impact on the child’s psychological well-being if they discover that their gender was chosen by their parents.
Summary
Intra Cervical Insemination is a commonly used fertility treatment that has also gained popularity as a method for gender selection. The research suggests that it may be a viable option for parents who wish to choose the gender of their child, with success rates comparable to other methods. However, it is not without its risks and limitations, and there are ethical considerations to take into account. Ultimately, the decision to use ICI for gender selection should be made after careful consideration and discussion with a medical professional.







