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Ambiguous Genitalia


About this topic


Most of the time at birth, a babys outside sex organs or genitalia look clearly male or female. In rare cases, a baby is born with genitalia that do not look like a boy or a girl. The medical name for this is ambiguous genitalia. Some babies have genitalia that may look more like the other gender. For example, a baby may have genitalia that look female, but have a male genetic make-up. A baby's inside sex organs also may not match their outside genitalia. ‚  

What are the causes?


While babies are starting to grow inside of their mothers womb, they start to make male or female hormones, based on their genetic makeup. The hormones guide the development of the genitals. If there are problems, the baby may not develop genitals that are clearly male or female. This may happen because of: ‚  
  • Genetic health problems
  • Problems with the baby's adrenal glands. The adrenal glands, which sit on top of the kidneys, make many kinds of hormones.
  • Mother taking certain kinds of drugs, such as steroids, before or during pregnancy
  • Unknown reasons

What are the main signs?


Babies with ambiguous genitalia may have: ‚  
  • A large clitoris or very small penis
  • A hidden vaginal opening
  • A urinary opening that is not where it would be in most cases
  • Labia that look joined together or a scrotum that looks split
  • No testicles in the scrotum

How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?


Most often, this problem is noted right after a baby is born. The doctor will do an exam and may order: ‚  
  • Lab tests like hormone levels and chromosome tests
  • Ultrasounds
  • X-rays

How does the doctor treat this health problem?


Some babies will need surgery to make their genitals look more male or female. Other times, the doctor will order hormones or other treatments. ‚  

Are there other health problems to treat?


  • It may be stressful for the whole family when it is not clear if a baby is a boy or a girl. Talking to a therapist or other families who have children with this problem may help.
  • Many children need surgery to treat their ambiguous genitalia. They may need more surgery as they get older.

Where can I learn more?


American Urologic Association ‚  
http://www.urologyhealth.org/urologic-conditions/normal-and-abnormal-sexual-differentiation ‚  
American Urologic Association ‚  
http://www.urologyhealth.org/urologic-conditions/ambiguous-(uncertain)-genitalia ‚  

Last Reviewed Date


2015-12-09 ‚  

List_set bdysylist


  • Neonatal
  • Pediatric
  • Reproductive

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider 's advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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