Variations in Sex Characteristics

Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am. 2024 Dec;51(4):635-649. doi: 10.1016/j.ogc.2024.08.002. Epub 2024 Sep 21.

Abstract

Variations in sex characteristics (VSCs) include conditions where there is atypical chromosomal, gonadal, or anatomic sex. VSCs may be identified when evaluating an infant with atypical genital appearance at birth, a child with a hernia or precocious puberty, an adolescent with delayed puberty or amenorrhea, or an adult with infertility. Care for the patient with a VSC requires a thoughtful approach to history-taking, physical examination, imaging, and hormonal and genetic testing. Consultation with an experienced multidisciplinary team is recommended. Psychological and peer support is essential, with particular care taken to support a patient's gender identity development and autonomy.

Keywords: Differences of sex development; Disorders of sex development; Intersex; Variation in sex characteristics.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Child
  • Disorders of Sex Development / diagnosis
  • Disorders of Sex Development / psychology
  • Female
  • Gender Identity
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Puberty, Precocious
  • Sex Characteristics*