Can humans be hermaphrodites?

Intersex is the general term used for the various conditions in which people are born with reproductive or sexual anatomy that does not fit the typical definitions of male or female. In the past, the term hermaphrodite was used for this.

Intersex people may have variations in genital anatomy. For example, a child born with genitals that are not clearly male or female. But there may also be chromosomal changes or hormonal changes.

Individuals with Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS) have XY chromosomes (normally male), but their bodies do not respond to male hormones (androgens), resulting in a female anatomy. In congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), the adrenal glands will produce excessive amounts of male hormones, which can lead to virilization of the female genitalia. In Klinefelter syndrome, men have an extra X chromosome (XXY), which sometimes causes them to develop more feminine body characteristics.

Intersex people can experience physical, medical, and psychosocial challenges. In the past, many intersex children were surgically altered to fit a male or female gender image, but this practice is controversial due to the potential psychological damage and loss of autonomy. The medical community now avoids unnecessary medical interventions and respects the autonomy and rights of intersex people.

Source: https://isna.org/faq/what_is_intersex/

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2023-12-11 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2025