Linea negra

"Apparently all women have a linea alba, a white line that is relatively unnoticeable that runs down the center of the abdomen (belly button to pubic bone). During pregnancy this line is renamed the linea negra as it tends to turn dark with the increase in hormones. Generally it shows up around the 4th or 5th month.

My friend Maija (due 3 days ago . . .and waiting) and I were talking the other day and wondered if the linea negra can also be a tell-tale sign of the baby's gender. Both she and I had it in our first pregnancies, and we both had boys. She does not have it this time around and is due to give birth to a girl, any day now. I do not show a linea negra this time around either (proof that the gender voting pole is right?)

Maija also said that her sister-in-law never had the linea negra until her third pregnancy: a baby boy that time. I know of another woman who gave birth to a boy and most definitely had a linea negra. However, in speaking with Lisa, she did not have a linea negra with either of her pragnancies: one girl, one boy.

It is said that those with darker skin tones are more apt to have a darker line, but many fairer skinned moms have had the linea negra as well. Was it a sign of the baby's gender??? Anyone want to add their two cents on this one? I'm intrigued."
--Clare