Yes, both males and females have the same number of ribs. The common belief that men have fewer ribs than women is a misconception that likely stems from the biblical story of Adam and Eve. However, in reality, the number of ribs is not determined by gender.
Most humans have 24 ribs, arranged in 12 pairs. These ribs are attached to the thoracic vertebrae in the spine and wrap around to the front of the chest. The first seven pairs are known as “true ribs” because they are directly connected to the sternum (breastbone) via cartilage. The next three pairs are called “false ribs” because they are indirectly connected to the sternum, and the last two pairs are known as “floating ribs” because they are not connected to the sternum at all.
While the number of ribs is generally the same for both sexes, there can be rare variations. Some individuals may have an extra rib, known as a cervical rib, or one fewer rib due to a congenital condition. However, these variations are not related to gender and are equally possible in both males and females.
In summary, the number of ribs is not a distinguishing factor between males and females. Both typically have 12 pairs of ribs, making a total of 24 ribs.