Pseudo-hermaphroditism

Shortly after birth, cosmetic surgery is carried out, the purpose of which is to change the appearance of the genitals. ^{[10] [11]} Informed consent is given by the parents or other legal representatives of the child. ^[12]

The use of the term “pseudohermaphroditism” is arguable. The term “pseudo-hermaphroditism” was coined by Edwin Klebs in 1876 ^{[13] [14]} , long before the genetic role of the X and Y chromosomes , as well as the social components of gender identity , were described. For this reason, the term is usually used in cases of gonadal tissue mismatch with the appearance of the genitals.

The term " intersexuality " was introduced by Richard Goldschmidt in 1923. ^{[13] [15]} However, this term has also been criticized. The Lawson Wilkinson Children's Endocrine Society, as well as the European Society of Pediatric Endocrinology, adopted a system of terms, the basis for which was the system used in describing disorders of human sexual development . The system covers those "congenital disorders in which chromosomal, gonadal or anatomical development is atypical." Thus, the system replaces many controversial terms, including those related to the issue of " hermaphroditism ." ^{[16] [17]}

John Mani is probably one of the first widely known researchers of the phenomenon of pseudohermaphroditism. His doctoral thesis “Hermaphroditism: A Study of the Essence of the Human Paradox” was awarded the Harvard University Award in 1952 ^[18] .

Mani’s view of gender identity as a phenomenon known in childhood was later refuted by a biography published in 2001 by one of his former patients, David Reimer ^[19] . One of the consequences of the publication was the damage to the reputation of John Many. In addition to his theory of gender adaptability, there was a serious crack, the biography also described very unpleasant therapy sessions, and also suggested that Mani ignored or hid all the more obvious signs that Reimer was mistakenly classified as female. Mani's supporters suggested that some of the statements about the therapy sessions were caused by the false memory syndrome. Nevertheless, both Reimer's brother and his mother were unanimous that the therapy “failed” in the sense that Reimer did not have an idea of ​​himself as a woman during the treatment of Dr. Mani. Dr. Mani never openly admitted that his conclusions were false.

Milton Diamond became, perhaps, the most famous defender of the rights of intersex society of the early 21st century. He is the Director of the Pacific Gender and Society Center. ^[20]