May 3, 2021

Genital Ambiguity at Birth: Ethical Issues in the Management of Children with Differences of Sexual Development, also known as Intersex

Key Points

Nontherapeutic early genitoplasty can compromise the open future for infants with DSD, suggesting alternative approaches.
The report emphasizes that the best interest of the child must guide decision-making, prioritizing meaningful participation.
Using bioethical principles, the study advocates against surgeries lacking medical necessity for affected infants.
Ethical management of genital ambiguity requires respect for the child's rights and autonomy as they grow.

Abstract

The “best interest of the child” is the primary principle in medical decision making for infants and minor children. In infants born with disorders of sexual development (DSD), early genitoplasty (plastic surgery to the genitals) in the absence of medical or surgical indication is not in the best interest of the child. Infants with DSD have the right to an open future, which can only be supported if they can participate meaningfully in decision making. In this clinical report, we present the case of a newborn with DSD and use three basic principles of bioethics to support our recommendations against nontherapeutic early genitoplasty.

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Cite This Study

Asma Fazal (Mon,) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/68af66dfad7bf08b1eae6277 https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.63292/rmva5789