In many parts of the world, the intense pressure to have a child of a specific gender can create emotional and social turmoil, often placing unfair blame on women. This persistent desire for a son or a daughter leads to significant stress and misunderstanding, explains Dr Joan Okemo, a consultant obstetrician gynaecologist at Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) in Nairobi. In some cultures, the pressure to have a child of a specific gender can be overwhelming. Couples often seek advice from doctors on how to sway the odds, leading women to undergo multiple pregnancies in the hope of having the desired gender. In the end, what truly matters is the health and well-being of both mother and child, regardless of whether the baby is a boy or a girl. It’s time for societies to move beyond outdated beliefs and recognise that every child, regardless of sex, is a blessing. Embracing this perspective will not only ease the undue stress on women but also foster a more inclusive and compassionate society for all families.