Evaluation of the Relationship of Maternal Feeding Style with Fetal Sex

The main aim of the study was to determine the relationship between pre-pregnancy dietary style and fetal sex. The level of adherence to the Mediterranean diet and fetal gender were assessed before and during pregnancy. The effect of fetal gender on maternal body mass index change during pregnancy was also evaluated. Descriptive survey study included 412 patients gave birth in Etlik City Hospital. The Mediterranean diet scale questionnaire was completed during first trimester follow-up and at time of delivery. Weight, height and body mass index of the patients before pregnancy and at delivery were compared. The included patients were divided into two groups according to sex of baby after delivery. Mean pre-pregnancy Mediterranean diet compliance score was 6.98±2.21 in mothers of male infants and 4.89±2.08 in mothers of female infants, and there was significant difference between the two groups. Mean change in BMI during pregnancy was 2.83±1.70 in mothers of male infants and 3.60±1.84 in mothers of female infants and this difference was statistically significant. It was observed that patients adhered to Mediterranean diet before pregnancy remained loyal to this diet during pregnancy. It was concluded that those fed with Mediterranean diet had significantly more male babies. Result of compliance with Mediterranean diet, it was concluded that body mass index of patients who adhered to this diet before and during pregnancy was significantly lower and change in body mass index increased significantly less due to weight gain during pregnancy.