General Information About Hermaphroditism
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
Known in older medical terminology as 'hermaphroditism' or 'intersex'; these are conditions where a baby's internal reproductive organs, external genital structure, or sex chromosomes develop outside of classical biological norms.
It occurs as a result of mutations in sex-determining genes, congenital malfunction of the adrenal glands producing excessive hormones (CAH), or hormonal imbalances the baby is exposed to in the womb.
Normally, a girl has 46,XX chromosomes; a boy has 46,XY. However, in DSD conditions, a person may have a 46,XY (genetic male) chromosome setup, but because their body cannot perceive the hormones, their physical appearance may develop entirely as a girl.
It is suspected at birth if the external genital structure has an ambiguous appearance. For a definitive diagnosis, a chromosome analysis (karyotype), detailed hormone tests, and a pelvic ultrasound or MRI to visualize the internal organs are performed.
This is a very sensitive medical and ethical process. The decision is made by a multidisciplinary team of experts evaluating the individual's chromosomes, internal organ capacity, hormone sensitivity, and future psychosocial development.
Hormone replacement therapies are applied according to the patient's medical and psychological needs. When necessary, reconstructive surgeries are performed to correct the genital anatomy or remove undeveloped tissues that carry a cancer risk.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
