Our D word for today is Disorder of Sexual Development
(DSD). DSD is the new medical term/diagnosis
for intersex conditions. The term was created
because many intersex people see themselves as fitting into the gender binary
with only a medical condition. The
expression ‘intersex’ was seen as overly political. DSD also covers medical conditions that are
arguably not intersex, such as Turners Syndrome or Triple X Syndrome. This redefinition has been very
controversial. The reaction highlights
the main division within the intersex community.
Many intersex people see themselves as men or women with a
birth defect. For them the strictly
medical term DSD makes is easier to explain their experiences and identity to
the outside world. It also makes parents
and doctors more comfortable talking about these things. They also feel that DSD better shows the
division between intersex, transgender and homosexuality. They are looking for support, not gender
politics and a medical fight.
For other intersexuals, like me, who have a non-binary gender
identity, intersex makes more sense for their identity. They object to the word disordered when
their medical condition does not disable them in any way. They feel that using DSD is allowing the
medical establishment to define the discussion.
That way the current treatment of intersex people will continue to be
the norm.
I think both sides make good points and a pragmatic approach is best. DSD is good in many circumstances. While talking to people about your
experiences without non-binary identities and gender politics it makes perfect
sense. DSD will also scare fewer people,
off or make them go into an anti-gay tirade. That being said, we absolutely need the fire
of intersex. We need to say what was done
to us was horrific. Explaining things in
a medical way that will not be off putting has its place, but without
confronting the system, nothing will change.
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