What is the science behind Pink or Blue®?
Researchers recently discovered that there is fetal DNA in an expectant mother’s blood. In a natural process, fetal cells die and pass into the mother’s bloodstream. As these cells break down, their DNA is released into the mother’s own circulatory system. The cells decompose and free DNA is released into the mother’s bloodstream. Using a small sample of the mother’s blood, we can determine if there is Y-specific chromosomal DNA. If we detect Y-specific chromosomal DNA, the fetus is male. If there is no Y-specific chromosomal DNA, the fetus is a female. Remember, females have 2 X chromosomes, while males have one X and one Y chromosome. For more information, see Science Science Behind Pink or Blue®.