Intersexuality - The Intersexual Spectrum

Causes of Intersexuality - Hormones

5-Alpha-Reductase Deficiency (5-ARD)

Treatment and Support

Treatment
5-ARD is easily misdiagnosed as some form of AIS (see there), and, because of their outwardly female bodies, most of the children affected are simply raised as girls. However, the changes of puberty toward maleness usually reveal the actual condition. Generally speaking, in modern Western societies there has been little tolerance for girls turning into adolescent boys and then living as male adults. In the past, therefore, various early surgical interventions routinely tried to “normalize” the children by keeping them “female” in spite of their chromosomal sex. This traditional practice is now being challenged by various intersex groups. The case is different, if the girl very strongly identifies with her female role. It may then be correct to perform the appropriate surgery before puberty. However, considering the complexity of the psychosocial and legal issues involved (possible later law suits for malpractice), both parents and doctors should solicit and honor the opinion of the child and also obtain additional information from advocacy and support groups.

Support Groups
In the past, persons with 5-ARD 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. The following group, for example, also supports persons with 5-ARD (click on logo).