Differences of sex development and surgical decisions: focus group interviews with health care professionals in Norway.

Background: Differences of Sex Development (DSD) are congenital conditions where the chromosomal, gonadal and anatomical sex characteristics do not strictly belong to male or female categories, or that belong to both at the same time. Surgical interventions for individuals with DSD remain controversial, among affected individuals, caregivers, and health-care providers. A lack of evidence in support of, for deferring, or for avoiding surgery complicates the decision-making process.

Understanding sexual health concerns among adolescents and young adults with differences of sex development: a qualitative study.

Purpose: Differences of sex development (DSD) are congenital conditions that involve variations in individuals' sex chromosomes, genes, external and/or internal genitalia, hormones, and/or secondary sex characteristics. This study sought to elucidate the experiences of adolescents and young adults living with DSD by focusing on their experiences of intimacy and sexual health.

Methods: An interpretative phenomenological research design was adopted.

'It was Supposed to be a Secret': a study of disclosure and stigma as experienced by adults with differences of sex development.

Background: Differences of sex development (DSD) are a group of congenital conditions that involve variations in sex chromosomes, genes, external and/or internal genitalia, hormones, and secondary sex characteristics. The present study sought to highlight the everyday challenges faced by adults with DSD as well as to understand how issues such as disclosure, information sharing, and stigma affect their daily life.

Method: We applied an interpretative phenomenological study design to explore the first-person perspectives.