When Do You Do a Gender Reveal?

Your Ultimate Guide to Timing It Right, from One Mama to Another by Baby Riddle

If you’re reading this, you’re probably where I once was, counting the weeks, watching for every little flutter, and dreaming up the sweetest way to share some big news.

And if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably asked: When do you do a gender reveal? What month do you do a gender reveal? How many weeks until gender reveal time? And how early is too early?

I remember feeling both excited and totally overwhelmed trying to time things just right. Should we wait for the 20-week scan? Could we do it sooner? Was it weird to plan a whole gender reveal party around it?

If you’re planning a cozy backyard reveal, a quick confetti pop with your toddler, or a full-on bash with family and friends, I’ve learned it helps so much to know the timing basics ahead of time so you can actually enjoy the celebration (instead of stressing through it).

So, from one mama to another, here’s a walk through what worked for me, what might help you feel confident about when to do your gender reveal, and what to consider before popping confetti, cutting the cake, or opening that envelope.

How Many Weeks Do You Do a Gender Reveal?

When I was expecting, we planned our gender reveal around the 20-week of pregnancy mark—after the anatomy scan. That’s when most providers can confidently confirm baby’s gender via ultrasound.

That said, some of my mom friends used early blood tests and found out as early as 10 weeks. If you go that route, just be sure to build in extra time to wait for results or order your gender reveal kits if you’re going the surprise route.

Pro Tip (from experience!): Wait until your provider confirms the gender before planning anything big. I’ve heard more than one story of pink balloons being popped for a baby boy!

What Month Do You Do a Gender Reveal?

This part took me by surprise, timing it by months actually depends on your due date. I had a summer baby, so our reveal happened sometime in early spring. Here’s a little cheat sheet to help:

Still unsure what month do you do a gender reveal or when to have gender reveal? Here’s what helped me: I just counted back about 4–5 months from my due date and picked a time when I felt good and things were a little less hectic.

When Should You Have a Gender Reveal Party?

We held our gender reveal right at 20 weeks, and it was perfect. I had enough energy, the nausea had mostly passed, and I wasn’t waddling just yet.

Most parents throw their gender reveal party between 16–22 weeks. That gives you space to:

• Confirm the gender with confidence
  
• Share the news before your bump starts dropping hints
  
• Avoid crowding your third-trimester baby shower
  
• Order gender reveal onesies (I still smile when I see ours in the keepsake box)
  
• Send invites and give loved ones time to make plans

Some mamas I know couldn’t wait and celebrated at 12 weeks using early blood test results. Others waited until week 24 and paired it with a family BBQ or a virtual get-together.

Baby Riddle Tip (and something I loved): Their Gender Reveal Collection works no matter your timeline, whether you're 10 weeks or 22 weeks.

Here are a few items I personally loved (or wish I’d had!):

• Lux Gender Reveal Gift Box 
  
• Gender Reveal Teddy Bear 
  
• 72-Piece Party Supplies Kit 
  
• 107-Piece Party Supplies Kit 
  
• Powder Cannons 
  
• Balloon Arch Garland Kit 
  
• Confetti Cannons
  

When Is the Best Time to Do a Gender Reveal Party?

Honestly? It’s less about the calendar and more about you.

Ask yourself:

• How am I feeling physically? I waited for the second trimester because I could finally eat something other than crackers.
  
• What’s the weather like? I planned ours around spring sunshine (and I’m glad I did).
  
• What else is going on in life? Between work and scheduling ultrasounds, I needed breathing room, and you might too.

In my experience, the best time to do a gender reveal is when it feels doable, joyful, and like something you’ll look back on with a smile, not stress.

Ultrasound vs. Blood Test: When Is Gender Reveal Done?

Here’s a quick breakdown based on what method you’re using:

I went the ultrasound route, but a few friends opted for a blood test. Just remember that while NIPT is super early, you might want to wait a couple of weeks to double-check the results before planning a big gender reveal.

When Do You Usually Do a Gender Reveal vs a Baby Shower?

We separated the two, mostly because I wanted to savor each celebration on its own. But I’ve also been to beautiful combined parties that made perfect sense for busy parents or out-of-town family.

Combine the two if:

• You’re short on time
  
• Your family is traveling in for one big visit
  
• You love the idea of one joyful gathering

Keep them separate if:

• You’d rather not feel rushed or overwhelmed
  
• You want time to rest between events
  
• Your gift registry or shower plans come later

Still debating between a baby shower vs gender reveal? Read our full guide here: Baby Shower vs Gender Reveal: What’s the Difference?

Gender Reveal Planning Tips for a Low-Stress Celebration

1. Pick a date after confirmation: Always wait until results are in.
   
2. Keep it simple: Balloon pop? Cake cutting? Confetti? Do what feels joyful.
   
3. Invite who matters: This can be big or small, virtual or in-person.
   
4. Shop reveal-ready outfits and props: Check out our Gender Reveal Collection for cozy onesies to themed décor.
   
5. Capture the moment: Hire a photographer or just have a friend record. It’s worth it!
   

Common Questions I Had About When to Have a Gender Reveal (and You Might Too)

How many months do you do a gender reveal?

Most parents do it between month 4 and month 5 of pregnancy, usually after the anatomy scan.

Can I do a gender reveal at 12 weeks?

Yes, if you're using an early blood test like NIPT. But be aware these results aren't 100% so build in room for retesting just in case.

When do people usually have a gender reveal?

Weekends between weeks 18–22 are the most common. It gives families time to celebrate after confirming results.

When can you do a gender reveal indoors?

Anytime! Use balloon pops, cake reveals, or scratch cards. No weather worries here. 

What to Do Once You Know the Gender
This is the fun part! Once you’ve got the results, it’s time to plan the how. Here are a few of my favorite gender reveal ideas:

• Gender Reveal Powder Cannons
  
• Confetti Cannons
  
• Scratch Cards
  
• Gender Reveal Cake Topper 
  
• Balloon Box

Add meaningful touches with:

• Sibling Shirts & Bamboo Onesies
  
• Gender Reveal Poster with Stickers
  
• Gender Reveal Backdrops
  

Celebrate with Confidence

Whether you’re 10 weeks or 20 weeks along, knowing when to do a gender reveal should feel empowering, not stressful. 

At Baby Riddle, we’re here to support your celebration with thoughtfully curated gender reveal products, encouragement for every step, and a little sparkle along the way.

Explore our Gender Reveal Collection, gather your crew, and plan a party that fits your heart and your timeline.

Because this is more than just pink or blue, it’s a moment that marks the beginning of something brand new.