In your research about XXYY, you may have seen references from The Intersex Society and others who have classified XXYY as an Intersex Condition (formerly referred to as hermaphrodite – or a person who has both male and female sex organs). Intersex is defined as a group of conditions where there is a discrepancy between the external genitals and the internal genitals (the testes and ovaries).
The XXYY Project wishes to correct a misunderstanding that has been derived from the definition of Intersex, as it relates to the sex of the child. Children born with the XXYY chromosomal makeup are:
- Always male – unless there is some other factor involved
- There is no discrepancy between the external genitals and internal genitals. Males with XXYY have male sexual reproductive organs
- Males with XXYY do not have female organs or genitalia
This article explains Intersex Conditions but fails to make the above distinction.
While XXYY Syndrome does fit within the description of a Disorder of Sexual Development (DSD) in this article, it is important for expectant parents and medical professionals to understand that the sex of the child is not in question.
The XXYY Project truly respects the Intersex Society and all people with Intersex Conditions. Our clarification was not meant to disparage Intersex people in any way, shape, or form. It was simply important for us to clarify this point because we have learned that parents have been told or have surmised that their unborn children with XXYY will also be of undetermined sex. We wish for parents to have correct information about XXYY when they receive a prenatal diagnosis and are making decisions about whether or not to continue with the pregnancy.