“Love isn’t a choice. You fall for the person, not their chromosomes.”
-I.W. Gregorio, None of the Above
Definition of Intersex
Being intersex refers to a person who has both male and female reproductive organs or a combination of characteristics from both. It can also mean the chromosomal patterns of a person do not fall under the typical definitions of female and male. In some cases, an intersex person has genitals or other characteristics that do not clearly fit the usual definition of either a female body or a male one at all. In most cases these are sexual characteristics, involving the genitals or the reproductive system. That said, it is not uncommon for an intersex person to look or present as either strictly male or strictly female outside of their genitals. Being intersex is a genetic condition that some people are born with and not a gender expression. With a congenital anomaly of the reproductive and sexual systems, intersex people are sometimes born with external genitalia, internal reproductive organs and/or an endocrine system that are different than most other people. The intersex term encompasses a variety of body types and situations.
Intersex As An Identity & Its Sexualization
If you are an intersex person, know that intersex does not have to be your identity. You are a unique individual, and while many people do claim intersex as part of their identity, it does not confine you to a specific gender identification. Most people who are intersex identify as men or women, though there are also many who identify as non-binary as well. In terms of the adult entertainment industry, there are pornstars who are intersex, and their videos can be found on specialty sites. That said, there is some controversy about the sexualization of intersex people, who themselves can have varying opinions when addressing that controversy.
The Bottom Line About Being Intersex
Intersex people can be born with any of several variations in sexual characteristics, including chromosomes, genitalia, sex hormones, and more. While they do not fit the typical definition of male or female, most identify as one of the two. They may have characteristics of both sexes externally, or they may also externally show the characteristics of only one sex. Some folks are fascinated by intersex people, and while some identify as intersex publicly, many do not, either for privacy reasons or to avoid being discriminated against or sexually objectified. Whether you are intersex or are seeking out more information about intersex people, we hope you found this article useful.