Neither boy nor girl… What is Disorder of Sex Development, why are its cases increasing, what is the treatment?

When the first glimpse of the baby is shown at the time of birth, the first question often asked is whether it is a boy or a girl? But for some children this question is not so easy. Such cases are called Disorders of Sexual Development (DSD), where the child’s body does not fit completely into the biologically male and female categories.

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India Now the cases of this disease are increasing. In such a situation, let us know what are Disorders of Sexual Development. Why does this disease occur and what are its symptoms?

What are Disorders of Sexual Development?

Disorders of sexual development is not a single disease, but many conditions. In this, the development of a person’s chromosomes, hormones, internal organs or private parts is different from the normal pattern. In some children, despite having XY chromosomes, the external organs may appear like those of a woman, while in someone with XX chromosomes, the external organs may appear like those of a man. In some cases both types of tissue are present. The important thing is that having DSD does not mean being “wrong” or an “abnormal person”. It’s just a different way of development.

Symptoms of DSD

Symptoms of DSD may differ from person to person. In some children, the private parts are not clear at the time of birth, in some cases the testicles do not descend, and in some cases the clitoris appears abnormally large. Delayed or abnormal onset of puberty in adolescence, hormonal imbalance, abnormal timing of periods or infertility can also be its symptoms.

Why does this disease occur?

There can be many reasons behind this. These include changes in genes, improper development of organs in the womb, more or less production of hormones, or the effect of some medicines and hormones during pregnancy. Many times these changes happen suddenly and there has never been such a history in the family before.

What is the treatment for this disease?

Treatment of DSD depends on the symptoms of the person. In many cases, regular monitoring alone is sufficient. Some people need hormone therapy so that the development of the body remains balanced and problems like bones can be prevented. Surgery is done only when medically necessary, and now even in India, doctors are insisting on postponing such decisions until children grow up.

Why are more cases being reported in India?

Earlier in India, such children were hidden due to social pressure, lack of information and misconceptions. Now, due to better medical facilities, genetic testing and increasing understanding of parents, DSD is being identified on time. According to experts, about one in 4,000 to 5,000 children are born with some type of DSD.

Most people born with DSD lead completely normal, healthy lives if they get the right medical care and social support. The real cure lies not just in medicines, but in understanding, sensitivity and adoption and India is slowly moving in this direction.