What is a Hermaphrodite?

Hermaphroditism is a rare and mysterious condition most often seen in animals, but occasionally occurs in humans as well. It is a condition in which an individual presents with both male and female reproductive organs, organs associated with either sex, or both. The individual is simultaneously both male and female, carrying aspects of both sexes. It is classified as true or pseudo hermaphroditism, depending on the individual and the genetic makeup of their sexual organs.

Hermaphroditism in Humans

In humans, a true hermaphrodite is usually identified at birth, as they present with two sets of sex organs. For example, they may possess both a cervix and a penis and may have both ovarian and testicular tissue. This condition occurs approximately one in 5,000 births and is not typically inherited. The exact etiology of this condition is unknown, but many experts believe it is due to the abnormal post-fertilization development of the genetic mechanisms that determine gender.

In many cases, if a true hermaphrodite is born, their medical team will assign them a gender shortly after birth based on the dominant gender. This gender assignment is typically the gender that’s most medically viable or the gender that produces the most functional reproductive organs. If the baby is born with ambiguous genitalia or both male and female sex organs, the team will carefully inspect the organs to determine the safest and most viable path of gender assignment.

Pseudohermaphroditism in Humans

Unlike true hermaphrodites, a pseudohermaphrodite is an individual with only one chromosomal sex, but their genitals don’t match or confirm to that chromosomal sex. For example, an individual with female chromosomes may have male genitalia, or an individual with male chromosomes may have female genitalia. In most cases, pseudohermaphrodites have other medical conditions such as Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) or Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS) which cause their gender dysphoria.

In contrast to true hermaphrodites, the gender assignment of a pseudohermaphrodite is based on the individual’s hormones, not just their genotype. Typically, medical professionals and endocrinologists manage the condition, and may treat the individual with a variety of hormones and medications in order to eliminate any gender discrepancies. Furthermore, experts may also look to other factors such as the individual’s behaviour, cognitive abilities, and overall mental and emotional health before assigning them a gender.

Living with Hermaphroditism

Living with either a true or pseudo hermaphrodite is not easy, as the individual may face a number of difficulties due to the condition. This includes issues such as discrimination, stigma, and social exclusion. Furthermore, individuals may also face difficulty in finding a partner or engaging in sexual activity, due to the ambiguity of their sex organs.

It is also important to note that in many cases, hermaphroditism can be classified as a disorder, depending on the individual and the complexity of the condition. As such, while the condition may present with certain benefits, it can also be difficult to manage, and may require medical intervention.

Generally, it is recommended that these individuals seek professional advice to ensure that they are able to adequately manage their condition. Furthermore, it is important to be mindful of the discrimination they may face and to treat them with respect and dignity regardless of their gender.