Intersex Conditions

Language

• hermaphrodite (outdated)
• intersex
• disorders of sexual development (DSD)
• differences of sexual development (DSD) 
• use the pronouns the person prefers

Avoiding confusion

• Intersex is a biological condition that is medically diagnosed
• Intersex is different from trans, though someone could be both
• Intersex is not a sexual orientation

Incidence 

• Fausto-Sterling's estimate is 17 in 1000 (1.7%)
• others estimate far fewer (e.g. 1 in 2000)
• depends what is counted as an intersex condition

A few kinds of DSDs

1. Androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS)

• have XY chromosomes
• starting during fetal gestation, body produces testosterone but doesn't have normal receptors for it
• complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (CAIS):
• appear female externally (they have female-appearing genitals and have vaginas)
• internally, they have testes and no female internal organs
• not fertile
• mainstream medicine: doctors advise raising as girls, removing inner testes
• Partial androgen insensitivity syndrome (PAIS)
• People with Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome

2. Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)

• adrenal problem that can cause intersex condition in people with XX chromosomes
• body produces no cortisol and atypical testosterone 
• XX baby may be born with small penis
• cortisol problem and other issues have to be medically managed
• can usually have children
• mainstream medicine: doctors advise raising as girls, performing surgery
• People  with CAH