The “I” in LGBTQIA+ represents intersex, which means a person’s biological sex doesn’t neatly fall into the typical “male” or “female” categories. Intersex is also known as differences of sex development (DSD). DSD can be identified by looking at a person’s chromosomes, genital attributes, reproductive tissue, or a mix of these elements.
It’s estimated that about 1.7 to 4% of people might be intersex, and it could be even more. Understanding intersex conditions, or DSD, involves looking beyond traditional chromosome patterns. For instance, females generally have two X chromosomes, while males have one X and one Y. In people with DSD, this pattern might be different.
The term “intersex” was previously referred to as hermaphroditism, but this term is outdated. Today, we use the term DSD to describe these conditions, which fall into four categories:
1. Individuals classified with 46, XX DSD have female chromosomes but may have ambiguous or male-looking genitals.
2. Those with 46, XY DSD have male chromosomes but may have ambiguous or female-looking genitals.
3. Ovotesticular DSD refers to individuals possessing both ovarian and testicular tissue. Its cause is not fully understood, but some animal studies link it to exposure to agricultural pesticides.
4. A complex or undetermined disorder of sex development includes chromosome combinations other than 46, XX or 46, XY, resulting in sex development differences.
Being intersex is about physical traits and genetics, not gender identity or sexual orientation. The characteristics related to DSD might show up at birth, but sometimes, they are discovered later, like during puberty.
In the past, if a baby was born with DSD traits, healthcare providers and caregivers often chose a sex assignment, sometimes opting for surgery. However, this urgency sometimes led to regret, as parents were not always aware that intersex is a natural body variation that doesn’t have to determine gender identity.
There are risks to gender assignment surgery. Today, there is ongoing debate because children with DSD can’t make these choices for themselves. Caregivers might decide to wait on surgery, allowing the child to make that decision when they’re older. The Intersex Society of North America (ISNA) encourages this approach, suggesting caregivers wait until the child is mature enough to decide. Before deciding on surgery, ISNA recommends that children be well-informed, including meeting people who have and have not undergone surgery.
Supporting someone with DSD means advocating for their right to make their own choices about their bodies. Caregivers can connect with others who have similar experiences for guidance. Davis, an advocate, points out that while surgery isn’t opposed, it’s the lack of choice that’s concerning.
Psychosocial support is also important, such as counseling or support groups, as many intersex individuals face mental health challenges. A study revealed that over half of the intersex participants rated their mental health as fair or poor.
Advocates emphasize the need for psychological counseling to navigate unique identities and challenges, asserting that having a different-looking body isn’t inherently harmful. Intersex, or DSD, encompasses four genetic categories based on diverse physical traits. If someone decides to seek treatment, it should be their choice. Supporting intersex individuals means helping them feel empowered and autonomous in their decisions.
