AU2021221702A1 - Method and device for increasing the chances of conceiving a baby of desired gender - Google Patents

Abstract

A method and a prognosis device are provided for increasing the chances of conceiving a baby of desired gender. This natural, non-invasive, scientific method and device will increase the chances of conceiving a baby with preferred gender by timing the intercourse as prescribed by this prognosis device based on one or many body fluid (such as urine, etc.) testing of prospective mother. The invention has the ability to predict and advice one or more optimal conditions such as ideal time of intercourse, sexual positions, diet, supplements, etc. to conceive a preferred gender baby. The invention has the ability of identifying onset of ovulation and at least three phases (low, high and peak) of fertility during a menstrual cycle by incorporating or connecting to a commercially available hormone detection device. The invention may display necessary information via on-device display or mobile application or similar interface via a mobile phone, tablet, or a computer. Optimal Conditions =ae BabySure Intercourse Time Cut-off Time Intercourse Time Diet Today Calendar Compare Supplements Cycleday Sexual Positions 08 Ovulation Prediction Cycle Information Test results Optimal Intercourse Notifications in 6 days Other Info Date: 25 Aug 2020 Time: 10:47 pm Account Device Q&A Terms FIG. 4 3/4

Description

Optimal Conditions Intercourse Time =ae BabySure

Cut-off Time Intercourse Time

Diet Today Calendar Compare

Supplements Cycleday

Sexual Positions 08

Ovulation Prediction

Cycle Information

Test results Optimal Intercourse Notifications in 6 days Other Info Date: 25 Aug 2020 Time: 10:47 pm Account

Device

Q&A

Terms

FIG. 4

3/4

METHOD AND PROGNOSIS DEVICE FOR INCREASING THE CHANCES OF CONCEIVING ABABY OFDESIRED GENDER

TECHNICAL FIELD This disclosure relates to natural conception and, more specifically, selecting the timing of intercourse to increase the chances of conceiving a baby of a preferred gender.

BACKGROUND A number of different methods have been developed in the past to assist prospective .0 parents to have a baby of their preferred gender.

Most of these methods rely on prospective parents to complete number of tests, graphs, calculations, judgements, estimations, and predictions manually, therefore introducing some subjectivity, complexity, inconvenience, and inaccuracy to those methods. To .5 address these limitations, there is a need for a new simplified method and prognosis device that can predict and prescribe a way to increase the chances of conceiving a baby with preferred gender, naturally.

In natural gender selection, the process of releasing an egg from one of the ovaries is a P0 very important concept as the conception can only occur after this process, which is called ovulation. The egg has only several hours after releasing from ovaries, within which it needs to be fertilised by a sperm to conceive a baby of any gender. Therefore, knowing when ovulation is likely to occur is very important in the natural gender selection process. Immediately prior to ovulation, the body produces a surge of Luteinizing Hormone (LH). This LH surge induces the ovary to release its egg. The LH surge can be detected by an increased level of LH in the urine which typically occurs approximately 24-36 hours before ovulation. Also leading up to ovulation, the estrogen hormone in the body will elevate causing number of changes in the body such as increased amount of cervical mucus and holding the basal body temperature down. As soon as the ovulation happen, estrogen levels comes down and basal body temperature rises abruptly. Also, the cervical mucus becomes sticky abruptly. All these symptoms have been used extensively in natural gender selection methods.

It has been well known for many years that gender is determined by the presence of two X chromosomes in females (XX) or one X chromosome and one Y chromosome in males (XY). The mother always contributes X chromosome and whether father contributes an X or Y chromosome will decide whether the baby will become a girl or a boy. The male sperm typically have same proportion of X and Y chromosome and thereby there is a 50 50 chance of conceiving a boy or girl if all other factors remains equal. However, it is believed that certain factors can be manipulated to increase the chances of egg being fertilized by a "X" or "Y" carrying sperm, thereby increasing the odds of conceiving a baby girl or a boy.

There have been number of previous attempts to identify and influence factors involved in the natural gender selection process. Previous efforts in this regard have been disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,788,984 to Dec. 6, 1988 to Marsik. Other .0 patents relating to methods for achieving conception and particular gender are U.S. Pat. No. 5,058,084 Oct. 15, 1991 to Riesen, U.S. Pat. No. 4,036,212 Jul. 19, 1977 to Karuhn and U.S. Pat. NO. 6,773, 726 B2 Aug 10, 2004 to Sweazy.

As per above prior art, chances of fertilization by an "X" carrying sperm or "Y" carrying .5 sperm can be influenced by many factors such as accurate prediction of ovulation, timing of intercourse in-relation to ovulation, placement of sperm during the intercourse (hence sexual positions), female orgasm and douching to change the pH of cervical mucus/wall, dietary factors and supplements. These factors can be manipulated to influence the chances of conceiving a baby boy or girl. PO When using Basal Body Temperature method to predict ovulation, as explained in U.S. Patent Number 6,773, 726 B2 Aug 10, 2004 to Sweazy, the prospective female is required to measure and graph BBT everyday (approximately 180 tests in 6 months) as soon as she awakes, must do it prior to any interfering activity such as going to the bathroom, brushing teeth, talking on the phone, eating, drinking, smoking, etc. Furthermore, the temperature should be taken at the same time each morning after at least three consecutive hours of sleep. If the female has gotten up to go to the bathroom during the night, at least three hours of consecutive sleep should have been achieved prior to taking the temperature. Also, use of a heating blanket or consumption of alcohol the night before should be avoided. If the female becomes ill, her body basal temperature reading will become unreliable and these values should not be utilized. A chart of the temperatures should be made by drawing a small circle around the temperature on the appropriate menstrual cycle day. Even after all these efforts, the temperature rise at the ovulation is marginal (less than 0.4 degrees) and difficult to differentiate. It was possible occasionally, a temperature will be excessively high or low for a particular phase of the cycle, frustrating the user who has to make a judgement whether to discard that reading or not. Even after all these tests, graphs, number of judgements, inconveniences the female need to estimate manually when her next ovulation date will be, and she has no clue how accurate it will be.

When using cervical mucus method to predict ovulation, as explained in U.S. Patent Numbers 6,773,726 cervical mucus should be checked beginning on the first day after menstruation has ended and the check is performed at least three times a day (approximately 540 tests in 6 months). The mucus is checked either prior to urination or after a bowel movement. This is accomplished by separating the vaginal lips with one hand while the index and middle finger of the other hand are inserted a short distance .0 into the vagina and then wiped forward across the inner aspect of the vaginal lips. If fluid is detected, it is then rubbed between the index finger and thumb. It is then determined whether the fluid feels dry, sticky, or slippery, what the colour of the fluid is, and whether there is only a small amount present or a lot? Also, the thumb and index finger should be separated to see if the fluid stretches, and if so, how long it stretches .5 before breaking to identify the abrupt thickening soon after ovulation. It is important that hands are washed before and after checking your cervical mucus so as not to contaminate the vaginal environment. Also, various factors can artificially influence the quality of the cervical mucus prior to manual detection. Such examples include checking the cervical mucus after urination has occurred. Sexual arousal and intercourse can also P0 significantly change the cervical mucus and therefore the mucus should not be checked at these times. When following this method, the cervical mucus is checked and should be charted beginning on the first day following menstruation. Even after all these tests, graphs, number of judgements, inconveniences the female need to estimate manually when her next ovulation date will be, and she has no clue how accurate it will be. P5 When using manual Luteinising Hormone (LH) detection test strips, the user has to interpret resultant colour change manually that can introduce some subjectivity and inaccuracy. Also, the user has to calculate and remember the testing dates, ovulation dates, optimal times, etc.

It should be appreciated that the above mentioned gender selection methods include assessing LH levels to detect the onset of ovulation. While this is an objective measure of the onset of ovulation, the LH levels spike very shortly before ovulation. The LH level spike triggers ovulation, which is why many conception methods involve tracking LH levels. However, the LH spike occurs over a very short period of time, which is why frequent testing is required in the time leading up to the anticipated ovulation time. However, setting intercourse times by reference an anticipated ovulation time doesn't account for natural changes in the timing of ovulation during the menstrual cycle. There are many factors that affect ovulation time and the impact of those factors can change from one month to the next. It is for this reason that anticipated ovulation times are an approximation when they are based on historical ovulation times. The same considerations apply to the basal body temperature (BBT) shift. It can provide an approximation of ovulation, but past timing of BBT is not a fully reliable indicator of future ovulation timing. Even then, the BBT measurement can be affected by a range of external factors, so BBT measurements are not a great indicator of ovulation timing.

.0 Other tests, such as checking the cervical mucus, are subjective tests which are open to interpretation. There is a margin of error associated with those tests which can influence decision on the timing of intercourse and may result in the timing of intercourse to conceive the preferred gender being partly or wholly outside the actual window of opportunity. -5 The above-mentioned gender selection methods are based on assessing the levels of one hormone (LH) and that assessment which is supplemented by a number of subjective tests. From the LH level assessment and the subjective tests, calculations, graphs, estimations, and predictions are made which inherently involve some subjectivity. P0 Additionally, they are complex and inconvenient and, due to their subjective nature, involve some inaccuracy.

In addition to above natural methods, there are few other medical procedures and techniques such as Preimplantation Gender Diagnosis (PGD) with In Vitro Fertilisation P5 (IVF) available to select the gender of your baby. However, such procedures are invasive, non-natural, costly and not available to general public in most countries without a medical need.

The above references to the background art do not constitute an admission that the art forms a part of the common general knowledge of a person of ordinary skill in the art. The above references are also not intended to limit the application of the apparatus and method as disclosed herein.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE In order to increase the chances of conceiving a baby of desired gender, the applicant believes that timing of intercourse by reference to at least three phases of fertility (low, high and peak) within the menstrual cycle should be taken into account by checking for the levels of two hormones, namely Luteinising and Estrogen.

In one aspect, there is provided, a method of timing intercourse to increase the chances of a woman conceiving a child of a preferred gender, the method comprising: (a) predicting low fertility, high fertility and peak fertility periods in the woman's menstrual cycle; (b) depending on the preferred gender, selecting the timing of intercourse based on the low fertility, high fertility and/or peak fertility periods; .0 (c) tracking LH and oestrogen levels in body fluid samples to determine actual low fertility, high fertility and peak fertility periods; (d) adjusting the timing of intercourse determined according to step (b) in response to the timing of the actual low fertility, high fertility and/or peak fertility periods determined according to step (c). -5 The low fertility, high fertility and peak fertility periods prediction may be based on historical data.

The historical data may include data from at least one menstrual cycle. PO The historical data may include data from at least 3 menstrual cycles.

The historical data may include LH and estrogen level data that covers low fertility, high fertility and peak fertility periods. P5 Step (a) may include predicting the ovulation day in the menstrual cycle, the average menstrual cycle length, the average duration of the high fertility period, the average time in the cycle of the peak fertility period and/or predicting the timing of the low fertility, high fertility and peak fertility periods within the cycle.

Step (b) may include setting suitable times for intercourse during the menstrual cycle depending upon the preferred gender and depending upon the predictions made in step (a). The suitable times include start times and end times for intercourse during the menstrual cycle.

Step (b) may include selecting a start time for step (c). The start date for step (c) is in a predicted low fertility period prior to the predicted high fertility period. The start time is selected as a predetermined time before the predicted peak fertility period.

Setting suitable times for intercourse according to step (b) may take into account the woman's age.

Setting suitable times for intercourse according to step (b) may take into account a desire to have a child of the preferred gender and an acceptable risk of failing to .0 conceive.

Where the preferred gender is female, the end time for intercourse during the menstrual cycle before the predicted ovulation time may be reduced with decreasing acceptable risk of failing to conceive. -5 Where the preferred gender is male, the start time for intercourse during the menstrual cycle before the predicted ovulation time may be increased with decreasing acceptable risk of failing to conceive.

O Step (d) may include adjusting the start and end times for intercourse during the menstrual cycle in response to the timing of the actual low fertility, high fertility and peak fertility periods determined according to step (c).

In another aspect, there is provided a device for timing intercourse to increase the chances of a woman conceiving a child of a preferred gender, the device comprising: (a) data input means for recording historical data; (b) means for communicating with a testing stick to determine LH and oestrogen levels in a uterine stream; (c) data storage means restoring the historical data and LH and oestrogen level data; (d) processor means for predicting low fertility, high fertility and peak fertility periods in the woman's menstrual cycle and for selecting the timing of intercourse based on the low fertility, high fertility and/or peak fertility periods; and wherein the processor means is programmed to adjust the timing of intercourse in response to the timing of the actual low fertility, high fertility and/or peak fertility periods determined by the communication means.

All the electronics necessary to achieve the functionalities described are familiar to those skilled in the art.

In another aspect, there is provided, a method comprising the steps of: a. choosing right (male or female) gender selection device; b. inputting customer variables such as prospective mother's age, last menstrual date, cycle length, preferred risk & reward balance between pregnancy & gender, etc. to the invention device; c. testing body fluid (e.g. urine) at the date/time prescribed by the invention device .0 d. reading optimum conditions such as ideal timing of intercourse, dates and times within which intercourse should be performed and/or avoided, sexual positions, diet, supplements, etc. from the invention device; e. following the device prescriptions to increase the chances of getting a baby with their preferred gender; and .5 repeating the same process if failed to achieve the pregnancy during the current cycle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the apparatus and method as set forth in the Summary, specific embodiments will now be described, by P0 way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 shows, the perspective view, plan view, and the side elevation of an embodiment of the invention device (not to scale).

P5 FIG. 2 shows, some of the key electronic components that may be necessary to achieve intended functions of an embodiment of the invention device (not to scale).

FIG. 3 shows, in schematic form, the basic functions that may be required in an embodiment of the invention device.

FIG. 4 shows, some of the key information that can be displayed on an embodiment of the invention device using a mobile app interface as an example.

FIG. 5 a process flow chart of two embodiments of the above disclosed method.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION A embodiments will now be described in the following text which includes reference numerals that correspond to features illustrated in the accompanying Figures. To maintain clarity of the Figures, however, all reference numerals are not included in each Figure.

It should be appreciated that all previously mentioned gender selection methods were based on one hormone (LH) to detect the onset of ovulation. When predicting the ovulation time, the embodiment of the current invention not only identify the onset of .0 ovulation but also identifies at least three phases of fertility (low, high and peak) within the menstrual cycle by checking for two hormones namely Luteinising and Estrogen and display all optimum conditions in one user friendly mobile interface hence making the current invention superior to all previous gender selection methods.

.5 To increase the chances of getting the desired gender baby, the method, described by way of embodiments below, uses multiple parameters such as ovulation date, high fertile days and peak fertile days. Optional parameters include the prospective mother's age and their preferred risk and reward balance between pregnancy and conceiving a child of their preferred gender. Other optional parameters are included in the embodiments described below.

The detailed steps user needs to follow are given below for improving their chances of naturally conceiving a female:

1. Select the right (girl) Chance Enhancer Device Pack - The pack will contain body fluid (e.g. Urine) test device, test sticks (that can measure both LH and Estrogen in one test), instruction leaflet, etc. 2. Establish the connection (Bluetooth, etc.) between the device and mobile interface (e.g. App) 3. The mobile interface will display standard optimum conditions for a baby girl 4. Input following parameters; a. Expected mum's age b. Last menstrual date c. Last cycle length d. Preferred risk & reward balance between pregnancy & gender

When trying to conceive a baby girl, the prospective mother needs to balance the risk and reward between pregnancy and gender by selecting a number with one decimal place between 2 and 3. This selection will define the number of days before the device will advise to avoid intercourse before the predicted ovulation, which we call as the "cut off date". It should be noted that, lesser the number of days, higher the chance of pregnancy but lower the chance of getting a baby girl. Though this selection is entirely personal, some guidance is provided in FIG. 5 on this selection.

Depending on last cycle length, the device will advise the required test start date using .0 following data. Last cycle <21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 >40 length in days Start testing 5 6 6 6 7 7 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 20 on the day

For this example, assume an expectant mum with last cycle length of 28 days on the third day of her current cycle. The device will request her to start testing on day 8. She will need to conduct tests once a day from 8th day using first urine after her longest .5 sleep, until the high fertility is detected.

5. On 8th day of her current cycle, soon after wakeup, remove test sticks from its protective foil pouch. The cap is removed from the test stick and the test stick is held with the absorbent tip pointing down. The absorbent tip is held directly in the P0 urine stream for 3 seconds. Alternatively, urine may be collected in a clean, dry cup and the absorbent tip is held at least halfway into the urine for 15 seconds. Then the cap is replaced over the wet absorbent tip and the stick is placed on a flat surface with the windows facing up and wait for 5 mins. Then the device will check whether test has detected elevated hormone levels. 6. The device will test for estrogen and LH using commercially available means and indicate 3 possible outcomes, a. Low fertility - No estrogen and No LH detected b. High fertility - High estrogen detected but no LH c. Peak fertility - High LH detected A peak result means the urine contains a high level of LH. This indicates that ovulation will occur within 24-36 hours and it is not necessary to perform any further testing. A low result means that no LH surge has been detected and further testing will be required on daily basis. A high result means, LH surge is imminent hance more frequent (twice or thrice a day) testing is required to capture the LH surge accurately.

7. Assume after doing the tests on each morning, device indicate low fertility on day 8 th, 9 th & 10th day and high fertility was indicated on 11 th, 1 2 th and 1 3 th day followed by peak fertility on 1 4 th day 8. To minimise the chances of getting a baby boy, the expectant mum should avoid intercourse on any of the high or peak fertile days 9. After peak fertility indication, no testing is required till the current cycle ends 10. When the next menstrual cycle starts (first day of full bleeding), input the cycle length to mobile interface. It will advise the next testing start date based on customised and stored data in the device .0 11. Follow this process for three cycles till the device gather enough data (average cycle length, average number of high fertile days, detection of peak fertility in previous cycles, etc.) for a customised prediction 12. Once three cycles, the device will gather required following data for an accurate prediction .5 a. Average cycle length - (say 30) b. Average number of high fertile days - (say 3) c. Peak fertile days present - yes d. Preferred risk & reward balance between pregnancy & gender input by the user - 2 13. Assume on the 4th cycle started on 1 st June 2021 the device predicts following; a. Next predicted ovulation date and time - 1 5 th June (based on customised stored data average) b. Next test start date - 1 0 th June (based on customised stored data average) c. Predicted suitable time period for intercourse - daily from 1 0 th June to 1 3 th

June d. Predicted intercourse cut-off date (based on user selection) - 13 th June 11pm (this needs to be confirmed via continued testing) e. Other standard optimum parameters such as sexual positions, diet, supplements, etc. 14. The expectant couple will start test twice daily (say 6am and 6pm) on 1 0 th June

15. If no high fertility is detected on 1 0 th &1 th June (as expected based on historical data) the device will recommend an intercourse on those days. 16. on 1 2 th June a. If high fertility is detected (as expected based on historical data), device will still recommend an intercourse on that day (as cut-off date is not yet reached) b. If low fertility is detected (contrary to what is expected based on historical data), device will still recommend an intercourse on that day (as cut-off date is not yet reached) c. If peak fertility is detected (contrary to what is expected based on historical data), device will not recommend an intercourse on that day (even though the cut-off date is not yet reached) - should avoid any intercourse 17. on 13 th June, before 11pm a. If high fertility is detected (as expected based on historical data), device .0 will still recommend an intercourse on that day till 11pm (as cut-off date is not yet reached) b. If low fertility is detected (contrary to what is expected based on historical data), device will still recommend an intercourse on that day (as cut-off date is not yet reached and historically has 3 high fertile days) .5 c. If peak fertility is detected (contrary to what is expected based on historical data), device will not recommend an intercourse on that day (even though the cut-off date is not yet reached) - should avoid any intercourse 18. on 1 4 th June PO a. If high fertility is detected (as expected based on historical data), device will NOT recommend an intercourse as the cut-off date is now reached b. If low fertility is detected (contrary to what is expected based on historical data), device will not recommend an intercourse on that day as the cut-off date is now reached c. If peak fertility is detected (contrary to what is expected based on historical data), device will not recommend an intercourse on that day (even though the cut-off date is not yet reached) - should avoid any intercourse 19. The expectant couple will follow above instructions 20. Continue to test daily till peak fertile day is reached 21. Avoid any intercourse for 4 days after peak fertile day notification 22. After peak fertility indication, no testing is required till the current cycle ends 23. If and when the next menstrual cycle starts (first day of full bleeding), input the cycle length to mobile interface. It will advise the next testing start date based on customised and stored data in the device 24. Continue the same process from step 13 till the pregnancy is achieved

The following embodiment will further illustrate how to increase the chances of conceiving a male.

1. Select the right (boy) Chance Enhancer Device Pack - The pack will contain body fluid (e.g. Urine) test device, test sticks (that can measure both LH and Estrogen in one test), instruction leaflet, etc. 2. Establish the connection (in the current embodiment using Bluetooth) between the device and mobile interface (e.g. App) 3. The mobile interface will display standard optimum conditions for a baby boy .0 4. Input following parameters; a. Expected mum's age b. Last menstrual date c. Last cycle length Depending on last cycle length, the device will advise the required test start date Last cycle <21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 >40 length in days Start testing 5 6 6 6 7 7 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 20 on the day

-5 For this example, assume an expectant mum with last cycle length of 28 days on the third day of her current cycle. The device will request her to start testing on day 8. She will need to conduct tests once a day from 8th day using first urine after her longest sleep, until the high fertility is detected. PO 5. On 8th day of her current cycle, soon after wakeup, remove test sticks from its protective foil pouch. The cap is removed from the test stick and the test stick is held with the absorbent tip pointing down. The absorbent tip is held directly in the urine stream for 3 seconds. Alternatively, urine may be collected in a clean, dry cup and the absorbent tip is held at least halfway into the urine for 15 seconds. Then the cap is replaced over the wet absorbent tip and the stick is placed on a flat surface with the windows facing up and wait for 5 mins. Then the device will check whether test has detected elevated hormone levels. 6. The device will test for estrogen and LH using commercially available means and indicate 3 possible outcomes, a. Low fertility - No estrogen and No LH detected b. High fertility - High estrogen detected but no LH c. Peak fertility - High LH detected

7. Assume after doing the tests on each morning, device indicate low fertility on day 8 th, 9 th & 1 0 th and on 1 1 th day it indicates high fertility 8. From high fertility indication on11th day, the testing will be done at thrice a day (say 6am, 12 noon and 9pm). 9. To minimise the chances of getting a baby girl, one must avoid any intercourse during these high fertile days 10. Assume the high fertility was reported on all three tests on day 11th, 12th, 1 3 t and on 1 4 th day morning test, the device detects peak fertility 11. As soon as the peak fertility is detected, the device will display following .0 information using customised processed data and information stored in its memory a. ideal time for intercourse b. time period, within which intercourse should be avoided c. recommended sexual positions .5 d. diet, supplements, etc. 12. The expectant couple will have an intercourse as per above instructions 13. The expectant couple should avoid any further intercourses for next 4 days (1 5th, 1 6 th, 1 7 th & 1 8 th day of current cycle) 14. After peak fertility indication, no testing is required till the current cycle ends 15. If and when the next menstrual cycle starts (first day of full bleeding), input the cycle length to mobile interface. It will advise the next testing start date based on customised and stored data in the device 16. Continue the same process from step 4 till the pregnancy is achieved

P5 The above embodiments are based on determining LH and estrogen levels through urine testing. Both levels are determined from a single test. I will be appreciated, however, that LH and estrogen level may be determined through separate tests. It will further be appreciated that the LH and/or estrogen levels may be determined by testing other body fluids, such as blood.

The above described embodiments may be incorporated into a device that guides a user through the process. The device, therefore, avoids the need to maintain log-books, charts and the like to track events and trends and to calculate the predicted menstrual cycle duration, the ovulation time and the low fertility, high fertility and peak fertility.

There are 13 key components within the current embodiment of this invention device. The first component is a data input and output interface (301). One example of an input and output interface is a mobile app synched with the embodiment via Bluetooth. Other input and output interfaces may be used, consistent with the spirit of the invention. Typical inputs includes, prospective mother's age, last menstrual cycle date/length, preferred risk & reward balance between pregnancy & gender, etc. Typical outputs include optimal conditions (intercourse time, cut off time, sexual positions, diet, supplements, etc.), Ovulation Prediction Info (Cycle Information, Test results, Notifications) and Other Info (Account, Device, Q&A, Terms), etc. The nature of user .0 accessible controls and information display features will be subject to considerable variation and are dictated to a large extent by aesthetic considerations. Byway an example only, a typical output screen is shown in Fig.4.

The given embodiment also accommodates an ovulation prediction mechanism (302) .5 that can detect the onset of ovulation with increased accuracy and at least three phases (low, high, peak) of fertility of women's menstrual cycle. One example of such mechanism is a commercially available Ovulation Prediction Kit that can detect both LH and Estrogen by testing one urine sample of the prospective mother. Other mechanisms may be used. The results will be electronically interpreted and converted to a digital P0 signal without human intervention hence eliminating inaccuracies possible due to judgement, subjectivity, etc.

A data transceiver (303) receives and sends data between the microprocessor and other internal and external components, such as mobile app, cloud, etc. The P5 receival/transmission frequency can be batched, continuous or user initiated. To maximise the battery life, it is envisaged that the data transfer will be initiated by the user. Data transfer to and from the invention can be achieved by number of means such as via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NB-IoT or any other LAN or WAN technology or simply synchronising with a mobile app using those techniques. All outputs such as optimal conditions, ovulation results and process instructions can be displayed via a data output interface (301) in a mobile phone, tablet or computer.

The microprocessor (306) retains all previous customer inputs, test results and the new invention process data in its memory and develops a personalised menstrual pattern and trend for each prospective user by using ovulation results and user input data over number of cycles, preferably three. Typical data may include parameters such as cycle length, number of fertile days before ovulation, number of fertile days after ovulation, LH concentration trend, peak LH concentration, estrogen concentration trend, peak estrogen concentration, etc. This personalised pattern allows the microprocessor (306) to come up with more accurate predictions for each individual. By using all above data and inbuilt algorithms, the microprocessor calculates and predicts relevant optimum conditions such as next ovulation dates/times, test start dates/times, optimum intercourse timing, cut off dates/times by which intercourse should be avoided, etc. The microprocessors also consist of some machine learning algorithm that improves accuracy of prediction with higher amount of cycle data.

.0 Information can be conveyed to the user by means of on-device LCD or LED display (304) via a Display Driver (305). If desired, information on the optimal timing can be conveyed by a simple visual indication, e.g. a combination of colours showing, for example, blue for most optimal time for boy and pink for most optimal time for girl. Though the on-device display can be programmed to display any information, it is .5 envisaged that it will be used to display only limited information. It is more user-friendly and enriching for the consumer to visualise all the information through a mobile data interface (such as mobile app in a mobile phone or similar) than the on-device display. Further such approach will help to minimise the inbuilt battery usage to ensure longer device life. It should be noted that some of the calculations and prediction will be undertaken within the mobile app due to above mentioned benefits.

The on-device user interface (307) generally comprise a push button which can be used to eject the test stick and/or initiate the operation. The power supply consists of number of components such as Batteries (308), Power Supply Controller (309) and memory back up capacitor (310) to prevent loss of historical data when/if it becomes necessary to replace the batteries and Power On/Reset (311). A timer, such as a clock (312) may be required to regulate test data within a cycle, between cycles, to assist optimal timing calculation and synchronise the time and date with the ovulation test data from commercially available ovulation prediction device (302).

It is envisaged that, clock, batteries, memory back up and power on feature are independent of the component 302 to minimise interferences with the most important hormone detection functions, hence ensuring the guaranteed accuracies are not compromised. However, when and if, it is convenient and cost effective to use any of the existing components (such as clock, batteries, memory back up and power on feature, etc.) of the component 302 without compromising the accuracy or battery life, or any other parameter, it is envisaged to use existing parts of the component 302 for the overall invention. It should be noted that some of the calculations and prediction will be undertaken within the mobile app due to above mentioned benefits.

Once the test results are transferred from component 302 to the microprocessor within the embodiment or mobile app, they will use its inbuilt machine learning algorithms to come up with predictions as described in FIG 5.

The programmed prediction mechanisms can be updated remotely based on consumer specific data and latest medical research. -0 By way of an example only, FIG. 1 shows perspective view, plan view and side elevation of an embodiment of the invention device at concept level. It will be appreciated that; general shape of the invention can be subjected to very considerable variation from that described above without departing from the scope of the invention. -5 By way of example only some of the key electronic components that may be required for the invention are outlined in FIG. 2. The detailed electronics of this invention that is capable of assimilating, remembering and handling large number of testing data (such as cycle length, number of fertile days before ovulation, number of fertile days after P0 ovulation, LH concentration trend, peak LH concentration, estrogen concentration trend, peak estrogen concentration, etc.) as well as providing the preferred electronic features of the invention discussed here in, and where appropriate predicting future events (such as the optimal date and time to conceive a baby boy/girl) on the basis of such data, can readily be provided by those skilled in the electronics art once they have been advised of P5 the factors that such a device must take into consideration, and the information that the device must provide for the user.

By way of example only the basic functions that may be required in such a device are outlined in FIG. 3. The individual features can be entirely conventional, and those familiar with the art of electronics will appreciate that other combinations and arrangements of such features can be employed to achieve the objectives of the invention. For example, so called "hard-wired" systems, and "neural networks", can be used in place of conventional microprocessors based on chip technology.

While the above disclosure of the device may incorporate the method disclosed above, it will be appreciated that the method may be packaged in other ways. For example, the method may be incorporated into an application for a mobile device or into a computer program running on a laptop of desktop computer. and with LH and oestrogen measurements being communicated by a separate measuring device. This may be communicated by any suitable communication means. Alternatively, the measurements may be manually inputted into the application or into the computer program through a suitable interface.

References in the specification and claims to the "timing of intercourse" and to the "start times and end times for intercourse" is a reference to a period or periods during the menstrual cycle during which intercourse should occur. However, this is not to be .0 interpreted as requiring intercourse to occur continuously through the period or periods. For example, the "timing of intercourse" and the "start times and end times for intercourse" may cover a period of several days and, during that time, a couple may have intercourse once per day or more than once per day.

.5 Those skilled in the art of the present invention will appreciate that many variations and modifications may be made to the preferred embodiment without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

In the claims which follow, and in the preceding description, except where the context P0 requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" and variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the apparatus and method as disclosed herein.

Those skilled in the art of the sports garment will appreciate that many variations and modifications may be made to the preferred embodiment without departing from the spirit and scope of the sports garment.

In the foregoing description of preferred embodiments, specific terminology has been resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "front" and "rear", "inner" and "outer", "above", "below", "upper" and "lower" and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

Furthermore, invention has been described in connection with what are presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the invention. Also, the various embodiments described above may be implemented in conjunction with other embodiments, for example, aspects of one embodiment may be combined with aspects of another embodiment to realize yet other embodiments. Further, each independent feature or component of any given assembly may constitute an additional embodiment.

Claims (18)

CLAIMS The claims defining the invention are as follows:

1. A method of timing intercourse to increase the chances of a woman conceiving a child of a preferred gender, the method comprising:

(a) predicting low fertility, high fertility and peak fertility periods in the woman's menstrual cycle;

.0 (b) depending on the preferred gender, selecting the timing of intercourse based on the low fertility, high fertility and/or peak fertility periods;

(c) tracking LH and estrogen levels in body fluid samples to determine actual low fertility, high fertility and peak fertility periods; and -5 (d) adjusting the timing of intercourse determined according to step (b) in response to the timing of the actual low fertility, high fertility and/or peak fertility periods determined according to step (c).

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the low fertility, high fertility and peak fertility periods prediction is based on historical data.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the historical data includes data from at least one menstrual cycle. P5

4. The method of claim 2, wherein the historical data includes data from at least 3 menstrual cycles.

5. The method of any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the historical data includes LH and oestrogen level data that covers low fertility, high fertility and peak fertility periods.

6. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein step (a) includes predicting the ovulation day in the menstrual cycle, the average menstrual cycle length, the average duration of the high fertility period, the average time in the cycle of the peak fertility period and/or predicting the timing of the low fertility, high fertility and peak fertility periods within the cycle.

7. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein step (b) includes determining a start date for step (c).

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the start date for step (c) is in a predicted low fertility prior to the predicted high fertility period.

9. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein step (b) includes setting suitable times for intercourse during the menstrual cycle depending upon the preferred gender and depending upon the predictions made in step (a). -0

10. The method of claim 9, wherein setting suitable times for intercourse according to step (b) takes into account the woman's age.

11. The method of claim 9 or claim 10, wherein setting suitable times for intercourse .5 according to step (b) takes into account a desire to have a child of the preferred gender and an acceptable risk of failing to conceive.

12. The method of any one of claims 9 to 11 wherein the suitable times include start times and end times for intercourse during the menstrual cycle. PO

13. The method of claim 12, wherein, where the preferred gender is female, the end time for intercourse during the menstrual cycle before the predicted ovulation time is reduced with decreasing acceptable risk of failing to conceive.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein, where the preferred gender is male, the start time for intercourse during the menstrual cycle before the predicted ovulation time is increased with decreasing acceptable risk of failing to conceive.

15. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein step (b) includes selecting a start time for step (c).

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the start time is selected as a predetermined time before the predicted peak fertility period.

17. The method of claim 15 or claim 16, wherein step (d) includes adjusting the start and end times for intercourse during the menstrual cycle in response to the timing of the actual low fertility, high fertility and peak fertility periods determined according to step (c).

18. A device for timing intercourse to increase the chances of a woman conceiving a child of a preferred gender, the device comprising:

(a) data input means for recording historical data;

(b) means for communicating with a testing stick to determine LH and oestrogen .0 levels in a uterine stream;

(c) data storage means restoring the historical data and LH and oestrogen level data;

(d) processor means for predicting low fertility, high fertility and peak fertility periods .5 in the woman's menstrual cycle and for selecting the timing of intercourse based on the low fertility, high fertility and/or peak fertility periods; and

wherein the processor means is programmed to adjust the timing of intercourse in response to the timing of the actual low fertility, high fertility and/or peak fertility P0 periods determined by the communication means.