Ambiguous Genitalia Surgery

What are the Causes of AG ?

• Expecting mother suffering from a tumour
• Some drugs contain male hormones, and if the pregnant woman consumes then there is a possibility that the female genitals will become more masculine
• Specific abnormalities can interfere in testosterone
• Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
• 5a-reductase deficiency can harm male hormone production

What are the Symptoms of AG?

• Baby having female genitals but closed labia which resembles a scrotum
• Enlarged clitoris which resembles a penis
• Baby having male genitals but an abnormally small penis
• Either one or both the testicles are closed
• The tube that carries urine and semen is not extended to the tip of the penis

How is the Diagnosis made?

When a baby is born, the signs of ambiguous genitalia are noticed by the doctor and nurses, but to fully confirm the problem the doctor recommends specific tests to measure the hormone level in the baby. This test will also analyse the chromosomes. Ultrasound of the pelvis and abdomen is needed to check for undescended testes.

What is the Treatment to be Followed?

Medications will help the baby in the development of hormones fully, and it corrects the hormone imbalance. Surgery may be used to make the sex organs work properly. If a girl’s private part is hidden under the skin then a corrective surgery at the early age will help in sexual functioning later. If a boy has an erection problem, the operation will solve it. Sometimes more than one surgery is required for better results.

Complications to be Observed

• Unexplained cause of death
• Infertility and excessive hair problem in females
• Abnormal physical development when the child hit the puberty.
• Increased risk to certain cancers