Disorders of sex development

Disorders of sex development (DSD) are medical conditions involving the reproductive system. More specifically, these terms refer to 'congenital conditions in which development of chromosomal, gonadal, or anatomical sex is atypical.' ('Congenital' means acquired before birth.)National and international medical classifications which pathologise variations in sex characteristics should be reviewed with a view to eliminating obstacles to the effective enjoyment, by intersex persons, of human rights, including the right to the highest attainable standard of health. Disorders of sex development (DSD) are medical conditions involving the reproductive system. More specifically, these terms refer to 'congenital conditions in which development of chromosomal, gonadal, or anatomical sex is atypical.' ('Congenital' means acquired before birth.) The term has been controversial, and research has shown that affected people experience a negative impact, with the terminology impacting choice and utilization of health care providers. The World Health Organization and many medical journals still reference DSDs as intersex traits or conditions. The Council of Europe, and Inter-American Commission on Human Rights have called for a review of medical classifications that unnecessarily medicalize intersex traits.