Disorders of Sex Development (DSD)

Sensitive, Specialized, and Supportive Care for Every Child
Disorders of Sex Development (DSD) are a group of rare conditions where a child’s reproductive organs, chromosomes, or hormones do not follow typical definitions of male or female development. These conditions can present at birth or later during adolescence and often require coordinated medical, emotional, and social support.
At Dr. Hegde Children’s Clinic, we offer compassionate and confidential care for children and families navigating a DSD diagnosis. Our goal is to provide accurate diagnosis, supportive counseling, and long-term guidance so every child can grow up healthy and confident.

What Are DSDs?
DSDs include a broad spectrum of conditions involving the gonads (ovaries/testes), sex chromosomes (XX, XY), or external/internal genitalia. Common types include:
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) with virilization
Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS)
5-alpha Reductase Deficiency
Gonadal Dysgenesis
Mixed Gonadal Dysgenesis
Turner Syndrome / Klinefelter Syndrome
Our Approach and Services
✔️ Detailed medical history, physical examination, and genetic evaluation
✔️ Hormonal testing (FSH, LH, testosterone, estrogen, cortisol, etc.)
✔️ Karyotyping and chromosomal studies
✔️ Imaging (ultrasound, MRI) of internal reproductive organs
✔️ Multidisciplinary collaboration with pediatric urologists, endocrinologists & psychologists
✔️ Counseling for gender identity, parental support, and decision-making
✔️ Ongoing monitoring of puberty, growth, and fertility issues
Let’s Support Their Journey Together
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We understand that a DSD diagnosis can be emotionally overwhelming. Our FAQs help address the most common concerns that families have, while ensuring clear, compassionate answers.
If a baby is born with atypical genitalia, doctors may recommend a series of tests—bloodwork, hormone analysis, imaging, and genetic testing—to understand the cause and plan further care.
Yes. With appropriate medical support and counseling, children with DSDs can grow up healthy, attend school, build friendships, and lead fulfilling lives. Psychological support is equally important.
Not always. Surgery is no longer an immediate or mandatory step and is only considered after thorough evaluation and discussions with the family. Many decisions can be delayed until the child is older.
In some cases, the best decision may take time. Families are supported in making informed, flexible decisions based on medical findings, future development, and the child’s identity as they grow.
We guide parents on age-appropriate ways to explain DSDs to their children, helping build trust, self-esteem, and emotional well-being. Counseling services are available at our clinic.