Related Experiment Videos
[Intersex: which gender should be chosen?].
J N Steensberg1, M O Bjerager, B Møhl
1H:S Rigshospitalet, Juliane Marie Centret, afdeling for vaekst og reproduktion og neurocentret, psykiatrisk klinik.
Ugeskrift for Laeger
|March 13, 2001
Summary
Assigning gender to infants with ambiguous genitalia requires careful consideration of multiple factors. Recent research suggests aligning gender with chromosomal sex when possible, moving away from the traditional female assignment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Genetics
- Developmental Biology
Context:
- Ambiguous genitalia in newborns presents a critical medical situation.
- Management decisions are complex, involving multiple biological and developmental factors.
Purpose:
- To review current knowledge on gender assignment for infants with intersex conditions.
- To discuss the factors influencing gender choice and long-term outcomes.
Summary:
- Gender assignment necessitates evaluating chromosomal sex, gonadal sex, fetal hormonal environment, internal anatomy, and future fertility/sexual function.
- Traditional female assignment is challenged by research advocating for gender alignment with chromosomal sex where feasible.
- Effective counseling requires multidisciplinary expertise but is limited by incomplete understanding of long-term consequences.
Impact:
- Informs clinical practice regarding gender assignment in intersex infants.
- Highlights the need for further research into long-term outcomes of intersex conditions.
- Promotes a more individualized and potentially chromosome-aligned approach to gender assignment.