Intersexuality - The Intersexual Spectrum

Causes of Intersexuality - Hormones

Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS)

Treatment and Support

Treatment
There are medical test that can detect AIS even in babies. However, CAIS is usually not suspected and thus rarely discovered in childhood. PAIS is more likely to be diagnosed early. Once a correct diagnosis has been made, the child’s position on the already mentioned AIS grading scale will help in deciding whether it should be raised as a boy or a girl. In the case of CAIS (female sex organs present) and some mild cases of PAIS (male sex organs present), the decision is easy, in others quite difficult. Depending on the individual case, and after carefully weighing all options, some hormonal treatment may be useful in puberty, and where a sex assignment has proved satisfactory over the years, some additional surgery may also help in consolidating the male or female physical appearance. However, in recent years, many adults with PAIS have become critical of this kind of surgery if it is performed routinely and too early. (The surgical removal of undescended testicles is another matter and may become necessary at some point.) In any case, it is advisable for all concerned – doctors, parents, individuals with AIS - to seek and maintain contact with the relevant support groups.

Support Groups
In the past, persons with Androgene Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS) and their families often felt isolated and found it difficult to learn more about the condition. However, in recent years, a number of support groups have organized. They will gladly supply additional information as well as links to other related sites. For example this group (click on logo):