The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

Determining Fetus Sex

To determine the sex of a baby before it is born a needle is
threaded, approximately 12 inches long. The pregnant female lies
on her back and a friend, relative, etc. holds the thread where it
has been tied. The needle is pointed at the center of the female's
abdomen. If the motion of the needle and thread is circular it is
a girl; if the motion is rocking back and forth it is a boy.

Submitter comment: This particular belief goes back to my great-grandmother's time
(in Poland) and was relayed to me by my mother. Many older Polish
women contend it works.

James Callow comment: For needles in sex determination see Puckett, Ohio, no. 860.

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; HAMTRAMCK

James Callow Keyword(s): ANAPEL

Subject headings:

BELIEF -- Birth

Date learned: 01-29-1992