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Gender verification testing in sport.

E A Ferris

    British Medical Bulletin
    |July 1, 1992
    PubMed
    Summary

    Gender verification in sports, intended to prevent cheating, has unfairly disqualified female athletes. Current genetic sex testing methods are misleading and cause psychological harm, necessitating a reevaluation of these practices.

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    Area of Science:

    • Sports Science
    • Genetics
    • Human Rights in Sport

    Background:

    • Gender verification testing in sports was introduced in 1966 by the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF).
    • Initial fears centered on males with physical advantages masquerading as females, leading to unfair competition.
    • The practice has resulted in the disqualification of female athletes and significant psychological distress.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To critically examine the history and impact of gender verification testing in sports.
    • To highlight the scientific and ethical shortcomings of current and past testing methodologies.
    • To advocate for the abolition of gender verification testing based on its implications.

    Main Methods:

    • Historical review of gender verification policies in international athletics, including the IAAF.
    • Analysis of the scientific validity of sex chromatin and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based genetic testing.
    • Examination of the ethical implications and consequences for female athletes.

    Main Results:

    • The sex chromatin test, used until 1991, was scientifically discredited for its limited scope.
    • Current genetic testing (PCR) identifies genetic sex only, which is insufficient for determining athletic eligibility.
    • Despite advancements, gender verification testing continues, causing harm and leading to unfair disqualifications.

    Conclusions:

    • Gender verification testing, particularly genetic methods, is scientifically flawed and ethically problematic.
    • The IAAF's shift to medical checks for all athletes in 1991 highlighted the redundancy of gender testing.
    • Abolition of gender verification testing is recommended as the sporting community gains awareness of its scientific and ethical issues.

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