Introduction:
Intersex refers to situations where someone is born with genital or sexual biology that does not fit typical male or female categories. It is an umbrella term that refers to different biological changes. For example, a person might have external features typical of females but internal features typical of males. Intersex conditions do not always appear at birth, even though it is referred to as an inborn disorder. Sometimes, it is not until a person reaches puberty that intersex anatomy is discovered.
What Is Intersex?
It is an umbrella term used in situations when a person is born with reproductive anatomy that cannot be categorized into females and males. Intersex is a naturally occurring change in humans and is not considered a medical condition. There are different ways to categorize an individual into intersex. Some may have genitals or internal sex organs that fall outside the male or female categories. A person may have both ovary and testicular tissues. Also, intersex individuals have different chromosomal combinations that are different from XY and XX.
What Occurs When an Individual Is Born Intersex?
When a baby is born with ambiguous genitals, doctors conduct examinations and do laboratory testing to identify the infant's actual condition. It is crucial to figure out what kind of intersex disorder one has. In cases of intersex births, the typical practice involves doctors and the family deciding on the assigned sex for the baby, either male or female, and raising the child as that particular sex's expected way of bringing up. It is normal to have surgery on a baby's genitals and give the infant hormones to help them fit into the male or female categories once they reach puberty.
How Do Doctors and Parents Decide on the Sex of Children With Ambiguous Genitals?
This judgment is based on several variables. Keeping fertility, guaranteeing adequate bowel and bladder function, preserving genital feeling, and maximizing the possibility that the newborn would be content with their given sex later in life are essential aims when considering sex assignment. As part of determining the most appropriate sex to assign to kids, doctors communicate with their parents before making the decision.
What Causes Intersex?
In a typical non-intersex individual, there are 46 chromosomes, with 44 being somatic chromosomes, and the remaining two being either XX (female) or XY (male). Intersex individuals may have modifications in this chromosomal configuration:
-
46, XX: Individuals with 46, XX chromosomes possess female chromosomes and ovaries. However, their external genitals may appear male.
-
46, XY: Those with 46, XY chromosomes have male chromosomes, but their external sexual organs are improperly formed, inconclusive, or feminine.
-
True or Genuine Gonadal Intersex: This condition means having both ovarian and testicular tissue. The individual may have XX, XY, or both chromosomes. External genitals can be ambiguous, resembling either male or female. The cause is largely unknown but has been associated with chemical exposure in some animal studies.
-
Complex or Undetermined Intersex Disorders of Sexual Development: Conditions beyond typical XX or XY combinations may include 45, XO (one X chromosome), 47, XXY, 47, XXX (extra gender chromosome, X or Y). These disorders do not cause misalignment of internal and external genitalia but can impact sex hormone levels, overall sexual development, and chromosomal numbers.
How to Identify Intersex Disorders?
The underlying etiology determines the symptoms of an intersex. They may include the following:
-
Ambiguous genitalia at birth.
-
Micropenis.
-
Clitoromegaly (enlarged clitoris).
-
Labial fusion in part.
-
Undescended testes (possibly ovaries post-puberty).
-
Masses in the labial or inguinal area (maybe testes) in females.
-
Hypospadias (penis opening somewhere other than the tip; in females, the urethra terminates at the vaginal opening).
-
Previously unusual-looking genitalia at birth.
-
Electrolyte imbalances.
-
Delayed or non-existent puberty.
-
Puberty brings about unexpected changes.
Is an Intersex Person a Hermaphrodite?
An intersex person is not a hermaphrodite. The term hermaphrodite comes from Greek mythology and refers to a combination of male and female. This is an impossibility in terms of physiology.
Are the Terms Intersex and Transgender Interchangeable?
Intersex people have biological anatomy or genetic composition that does not align with typical male or female categories, often identified shortly after birth. Being transgender, on the other hand, is about the internal understanding of their gender identity. People labeled as transgender or transsexual are typically born with traditional male or female anatomy.
What Are Some Standard Therapies for Intersex People?
The treatment focuses on the underlying condition, such as;
-
Clitoris amputation in persons with clitoromegaly.
-
Correction of hypospadias to allow for normal urination.
-
Vaginoplasty to correct the labia-associated issues.
-
Neo vagina creation in people who were previously assigned as male but were born with female reproductive organs.
-
Surgical transfixion of undescended testes.
-
Hormone therapy.
How Can Intersex Disorders Be Avoided?
Prenatal Counseling: Chromosomal abnormalities cause intersex disorders, and these abnormalities can be influenced by various things such as chemicals, drugs, and treatments. Prenatal counseling is crucial in this situation. Many cases have also been connected to a concerned mother's use of hormone supplements such as testosterone, resulting in intersex. Preimplantation gestational determination of chromosomal abnormality can also aid parents in their decision to abort.
How to Support Someone With an Intersex Disorder?
Support plays a pivotal role in the psychosocial rehabilitation of individuals with intersex conditions. It is essential to actively work towards preventing the mockery, harassment, or discrimination of people facing intersex challenges. Being mindful of personal attitudes and feelings regarding sex, gender, and disabilities is crucial in fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. Discover how to discuss sex and sexuality with children in a manner suitable for their age. Parental guidance for those with intersex children involves offering continuous support and unconditional love. It is strongly encouraged for parents to seek support from others facing similar situations. Also building connections between intersex children is important, creating opportunities for mutual support and understanding.
Conclusion
For a long time, doctors thought it was best to hide intersex conditions as much as possible. But the situation has changed. People are made aware of these biological changes and make them understand it is not a medical condition or deformity. It is very commonly heard that intersex persons feel ashamed of their situation and try to isolate themselves from society. The best way to get rid of shame and help individuals and families dealing with intersex is by talking openly and honestly about it.
