Donald Trump - Reproductive Endocrinologist

Non physician practices medicine

Donald Trump declared today that henceforth there are only two genders, male and female. Unfortunately Trump is not an MD and has no training in medicine or Reproductive Endocrinology.

There is a reason why you need a license to practice medicine. His proclamation does an extreme injustice to people with intersex states. What are those?

Intersex is a term used to describe variations in sex characteristics (chromosomes, gonads, sex hormones, or genitalia) that do not fit typical definitions of male or female bodies. These variations can occur naturally and are more common than often assumed, with estimates suggesting that about 1.7% of the population is intersex.

Common Intersex Variations

1. Chromosomal Variations:

   • Klinefelter Syndrome (47,XXY): Individuals have an extra X chromosome, often resulting in male physical traits but with smaller testes and reduced fertility.

   • Turner Syndrome (45,X or variants): Individuals typically have one X chromosome and may present with female physical traits and infertility.

   • Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS): The body is partially or completely unable to respond to male sex hormones (androgens), leading to female or ambiguous physical traits despite an XY chromosome pattern.

2. Gonadal Variations:

   • Ovotesticular Disorder: Presence of both ovarian and testicular tissue in the same individual.

   • Gonadal Dysgenesis: Underdeveloped gonads that may not function typically.

3. Hormonal Variations:

   • Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH): Overproduction of androgens in XX individuals, leading to masculinization of genitalia.

   • 5-Alpha-Reductase Deficiency: Individuals with XY chromosomes are unable to convert testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), resulting in ambiguous genitalia.

4. Genital Variations:

   • Variations in external genitalia that may not clearly align with male or female norms, such as ambiguous genitalia or atypical development of the clitoris or penis.

Medical and Social Considerations

• Medical Intervention: Historically, intersex individuals often underwent surgeries or hormonal treatments in infancy or childhood to make their bodies conform to binary sex norms. This practice has been criticized for its potential physical and psychological harm.

• Legal Recognition: Some countries now recognize intersex as a legal sex category, and there is growing advocacy for bodily autonomy and the right to delay medical interventions until the individual can consent.

• Support and Advocacy: Intersex individuals and advocates work to raise awareness, promote inclusion, and ensure access to appropriate healthcare and legal protections.