Psychology in Gender lecture 2/11

Pubertal Development and Reproductive Maturity

• The reproductive system becomes functional during puberty.

• Mature ova (eggs) are created and released during this phase.

• Ovulation indicates the presence and functionality of various internal reproductive organs, not just external ones.

Differences in External Genitalia

• The differentiation between a clitoris and a penis at birth is influenced by hormonal actions and receptor presence.

• It is crucial to understand that tissue in newborns is markedly small, and the external genital structures are not fully developed.

Surgical Interventions and Their Implications

• Many newborns may undergo surgery to alter the appearance of their external genitalia, often aimed at feminization.

• This surgery is usually performed without the parents' immediate input, and the intention is often to correct or enhance genital appearance to conform to societal norms.

• Such surgeries can lead to a lifelong series of interventions and raise significant ethical and psychological concerns.

Questions Regarding Intersex Conditions

1. Identifying Intersex in Utero:

   • There are advancements in prenatal diagnostics, yet it may not always be possible to determine if a child will be intersex before birth.

2. Surgical Decision-Making:

   • The decision for surgical intervention is generally made by parents, but it often depends on the medical team's recommendations and protocols. Doctors may push for surgery based on societal norms and perceived needs for conformity.

Primary and Secondary Sex Characteristics

• Primary sex characteristics: Body parts needed specifically for reproduction that indicate sexual maturity.

• Secondary sex characteristics: Developments not strictly required for reproduction but enhance reproductive attractiveness, such as body hair.

• Hormones like estradiol and androgens play significant roles in the development of these characteristics, signaling readiness for reproduction.