Approximately 1-2% of children are born with variations in their sex characteristics and families need compassionate, affirming, and patient-centered medical care.  Both the terms, Differences of Sexual Development (DSD) and Intersex, are used to reference people with such a variety of conditions that impact factors such as:

• Hormones
• Hormone sensitivity
• Internal sex organs
• Genitalia

Multi-disciplinary care is critical for children with these variations. No one intervention can address all of the health and psycho-social implications associated with intersex lives. When children and families are supported, children grow to lead happy healthy lives. 

The approach to diagnosis is targeted based on sex characteristics and the care is personalized to each child so that the best possible outcome can be reached.  Care must also align with the child’s cognitive and psychological development and interventions staged according to their understanding of risks and benefits.  For example, with care decisions including approach to sex hormone treatment it is important to consider the child’s understanding of sexual development and gender identity.  When feasible, surgical decisions shall be deferred until the child can meaningfully participate in the decision-making process. 

To promote well-being and achieve full-life outcomes, Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital established the Comprehensive Sexual Development Center (CSDC), based in the Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes.  CSDC uses a team approach that combines the insights of:

• Pediatric endocrinologists
• Psychologists
• Geneticists
• Urological surgeons
• Patient advocate
• Ethics expert
• Parents/ guardians

Making Decisions

The approach to diagnosis is targeted based on sex characteristics and the care is personalized to each child so that the best possible outcome can be reached.  Care must also align with the child’s cognitive and psychological development and interventions staged according to their understanding of risks and benefits.  For example, with care decisions including approach to sex hormone treatment it is important to consider the child’s understanding of sexual development and gender identity. 

Deciding on Surgery

When feasible, surgical decisions shall be deferred until the child can meaningfully participate in the decision-making process.  Our interdisciplinary team will assist parents regarding the feasibility and timing of specific interventions informed by data-driven counseling. We can also connect parents to community support resources that may be able to offer additional help.

Why Choose Us

Mount Sinai is one of the nation’s leaders in helping intersex individuals. Because we work as a team with multiple specialties, we can provide seamless and innovative care. We are here for intersex youth and their families from diagnosis to care and beyond, and we personalize our care to meet your specific needs.