Dr. Judith G. Brysk, M.D.

It is only in old wives tales that your question can be answered. I have heard people talk about the Drano test, how you carry, and plumb lines, etc. In today's world, where most women have an ultrasound mid-pregnancy, the gender can usually be seen that way. Frankly, more people choose to find out with their ultrasound. But isn't it a shame that you lose out on
fantasizing both ways? That used to be part of the fun.

You can drink water, milk (any fat level and including almond milk, soy milk and coconut milk), juice (fruit or veg), decaf hot drinks, pop (sparingly as you don't need the sugar or caffeine). The 'what you should not drink' list is shorter. You should not drink alcoholic beverages (including beer and wine) to avoid fetal alcohol syndrome or more subtle brain and learning problems. You should have no more than 1 caffeinated drink per day (regular size, not venti). There is some data that suggests caffeine may be linked to miscarriage. I would not recommend large quantities of diet soda, as it is all chemicals. The other important part of this is total calories consumed. Drinks other than water can have a lot of calories. You are not "eating for two" in a pregnancy, you are eating for 1 1/2. That tiny fetus isn't using the calories you do. If you are eating more food and don't want excess weight gain in pregnancy, don't drink a lot of high calorie drinks.

Make your water more interesting by adding cucumber or lemon or lime. If you do drink fruit juice, water it down if you want a big glass. Most importantly, stay hydrated!