top of page
icfi logo banner
Introductions

What is Intersex?

Intersex is a term that describes a range of natural variations in human sex characteristics. These variations can include differences in chromosomes, gonads, genitalia, or hormone levels that do not fit typical definitions of male or female. Intersex variations occur in approximately 1 in 1,500 to 1 in 2,000 live births.

Imagine that people are like a big puzzle, and each puzzle piece is unique and special. Intersex is when someone's puzzle pieces don't fit exactly into what we usually think of as "boy" or "girl" pieces.

Sometimes, our bodies might have some parts that are a little different. Just like how some people different colored eyes or hair, some people might have bodies that are a bit different when it comes to things like private parts, chromosomes, or hormones.

Just like every puzzle piece is important to complete the puzzle, every person is important in our big world. Everyone deserves love, respect, and the chance to be themselves. Being intersex is okay—it's just one more way that people can be different and amazing!

If you're an intersex child or a parent, know that you're not alone. There are people who care about you and want to help. If you'd like to know more or have questions, you can reach out to us. We're here to listen and support you. Feel free to ask questions and learn more, so you can feel confident and happy just the way you are.

What does Intersex Variation mean?

Let's talk about something called "intersex variations" and how they might make private parts a bit different from what you might expect. Intersex variations are more common than one might think. In India and around the world, intersex individuals exist within every community and culture.

For example, a child may be born with body parts that are a mix of both "boy" and "girl" parts. Or they might have parts that look a bit different from what most people have. Just like all our fingers are not the same, no two bodies are exactly the same either. It's like having a unique combination of puzzle pieces!

Intersex variations are sometimes referred to using different terms, which can vary based on cultural, medical, or advocacy perspectives. Here are some alternative terms or related concepts:

Differences of Sex Development (DSD): This term is often used in medical contexts to describe intersex variations. It acknowledges the natural diversity of sex development.

Variations of Sex Characteristics (VSC): Similar to DSD, this term is employed to emphasize the diversity of sex characteristics among individuals.

Disorders of Sex Development (DSD): While previously used, this term has faced criticism for pathologizing intersex variations and is now less commonly used in favor of more neutral terms like "Differences of Sex Development."

bottom of page