Intersex healthcare

Intersex healthcare differs from the healthcare of non-intersex (often referred to as endosex) people. This due to stigma and potential health complications arising from their bodily variations. People with intersex variations, also called disorders of sex development, have hormonal, genetic, or anatomical differences unexpected of an endosex male or female. This can include, but is not limited to, uncommon sex chromosomes like XXY or X, reproductive organs with a mix of male and female structures, underdeveloped reproductive organs, etc. Healthcare for intersex people can include treatments for one's mental, cognitive, physical, and sexual health. This can include hormone replacement, peer support, medical assistance for conceiving children, and other treatments depending on the needs of the individual. The healthcare needs of intersex people vary depending on which variations they have. Intersex conditions are diagnosed prenatally (before birth), at birth, or later in life via genetic and hormone testing as well as medical imaging.

Intersex healthcare has historically focused on patients fitting physical and social norms for one's sex. This includes concealing information from patients and medically unnecessary surgeries. Intersex organizations advocate to end these practices and make further changes to respect and include intersex people. Medical trauma, lack of research, and lack of access can hinder quality healthcare for intersex people. The medicalization of intersex conditions and the use of the term 'disorders of sex development' are disputed as well.

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