Ambiguity: Who should Choose?

Gender identity is the personal identification and categorization of an individual’s particular gender. In western society, the normative ideology regarding gender is determined through the two sexes; female and male. Socialization processes are very important in teaching the proper expression of gender characteristics. We have all been assigned to a particular gender. This assignment took place whilst still in the womb. The particular appearance of an individual’s genitalia then leads to the gender assignment. Every person is aware of what is proper to wear, how one should act, and what is acceptable for each gender. These behaviors and beliefs have been reinforced since infancy and therefore remain throughout the life course and will eventually be taught to the next generation.

But what if the appearance of an individual’s genitalia is completely ambiguous? What if the most important factor used to differentiate amongst females and males is not present? What should be done if someone looks to be both male and female? The condition of having intermediate and atypical combinations of physical features of both sexes is defined as intersex. The statistics shows that 1 in every 1,500 infants will be born with genitalia that will not be easily classified. The following clip shows an intersex individuals story and their views on what should be done to "correct" intersex infants' ambiguous genitals. It also shows two surgeons with two very different views and experiences with the intersex community.  

 

It is interesting to hear the woman in this video talk about what her gender identity is. She mentions she is a female, but a different variety of female. Is it possible for western societies to accept variations in our two strictly defined genders? Difficult to tell. We all see the discrimination and negative views many have on homosexual individuals, but this seems to be something completely different; and it is. An intersex individual has not chosen to have both genital structures, they for whatever reason were simply born that way. Why should they be discriminated against or looked down upon when their condition was a mere mutation? 

What is done after an infant is determined to have ambiguous genitals has changed in the last years. In early years most doctors would suggest that all babies have surgeries which would convert them into full females. The problem is that many individuals suffered malpractice and were literally mutilated and deeply suffered long-terms effects. Others were hormonally of one sex, but due to surgery were physically female. Having emotional and hormonal similarities with physical genitalia can have detrimental effects. Many stories have been shared and we can see different views, such is the case in a NY Times article about an intersex individual name Chase.

There are many new guidelines which protect intersex babies and their families. But it is the children and their futures which should be the main priority. Many people can have different opinions, but I believe whatever is done should be for the benefit of the children. In my opinion people born with ambiguous genitalia should be allowed to choose for themselves later in life when they are aware of what it means and what it will entail. During their development parents should listen to their children and ask them what they want and how they feel. In a situation so delicate and sensitive this may be the only way to go about innocent children's lives. 

It is a controversial topic, like many others are. But when society is so apposed to changing their views it becomes even more difficult. Everyone should attempt to sympathize with intersex individuals and maybe in the future they may be fully accepted as they are with no necessary tweaks or  adjustments.