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Is intersexuality a mere difference or disorder?

Rashad Rehman1

  • 1Department of Philosophy & Joint Centre for Bioethics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Bioethics
|April 18, 2022
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Intersexuality is debated as a disorder or difference. This paper argues some intersex cases are disorders, others differences, advocating for nuanced terminology to improve care for intersex individuals.

Keywords:
DSDdifferencedisordergenderintersexnomenclaturesex

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Area of Science:

  • Medical Ethics
  • Endocrinology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • The term "disorder of sexual development" (DSD) has faced criticism from intersex scholars.
  • Criticisms include medical inaccuracy, potential for unnecessary surgeries, and pathologization of intersex individuals.
  • Intersex individuals often prefer terms like "difference" or "variation" over "disorder."

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the dichotomy of intersexuality as a "disorder" versus a "mere difference."
  • To critically evaluate the implications of current DSD nomenclature.
  • To propose a nuanced approach to intersex classification for improved clinical care.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and critical analysis of existing DSD nomenclature.
  • Philosophical argumentation on the conceptualization of "disorder" and "difference" in intersexuality.
  • Synthesis of scholarly critiques and clinical perspectives.

Main Results:

  • The current "disorder" terminology is medically inaccurate and can lead to negative outcomes.
  • Linguistic choices significantly impact the perception and treatment of intersex individuals.
  • A binary classification of "disorder" or "mere difference" is insufficient.

Conclusions:

  • Some intersex conditions may be classified as disorders, while others are best understood as differences.
  • Adopting a more nuanced terminology is crucial for accurate diagnosis and personalized medical care.
  • Revising intersex terminology can lead to better clinical outcomes and respect for intersex identities.