A person assigned female at birth who possesses male reproductive organs or characteristics is called intersex. This term encompasses individuals with variations in sex characteristics that don't fit the typical binary categories of male or female. These variations can involve chromosomes, hormones, internal reproductive organs, or external genitalia.
The term "hermaphrodite," while historically used, is now considered outdated and potentially offensive. The medical community and many advocacy groups prefer the term "intersex" as it's more inclusive and respectful.
Understanding Intersex Variations:
Intersex variations are diverse and can manifest in various ways:
- Chromosomal variations: A person's chromosomes might not align with typical XX (female) or XY (male) patterns.
- Hormonal imbalances: The balance of androgens (male hormones) and estrogens (female hormones) can be atypical, leading to variations in sexual development.
- Internal organ differences: Individuals might have internal reproductive organs that don't conform to the typical male or female patterns. For instance, they may have both ovarian and testicular tissue.
- External genital variations: External genitalia might present in ways that don't fall neatly into the male or female categories.
Why the term "intersex" is preferred:
The term "intersex" acknowledges the spectrum of variations in sex characteristics and avoids the outdated and often stigmatizing term "hermaphrodite." It emphasizes the biological reality of sex variations beyond the simple male/female binary. The term "intersex" is widely used in medical literature and by advocacy organizations. Many intersex individuals and groups actively advocate for the correct and respectful use of this term.
According to the MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, the condition of having discrepancies between the internal and external sex organs is called "differences of sex development".
Planned Parenthood explains that some intersex individuals may have external genitals that seem typical, but their internal organs or hormones don't conform to the expected norms.
