There are a total of 23 pairs of chromosomes or 46 total chromosomes. All of the body's genes are contained within these 46 chromosomes. Females have 2 X chromosomes and males have 1 X and 1 Y chromosome. The Y chromosome determines the male sex but does little else.
Chromosomes exist in pairs.
For convenience, scientists have numbered the autosomal chromosome pairs 1 through 22. The X and Y chromosome are the 23rd pair. Therefore, it is the male that determines the sex of the child. The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.