A pediatric disorder of sexual development (DSD) happens when a child is born with sex organs that did not develop properly due to a chromosomal abnormality or the production of hormones. The disorder can range from mild to serious, affecting the development of genitalia and reproductive organs at different ages. It may be hard to tell if the child is male or female at birth, or the disorder can become apparent during puberty when sex hormones trigger growth and secondary sex changes. 

If your child is born with a disorder of sexual development, you may have many concerns about their physical and emotional health, as well as their reproductive future. The UT Southwestern physicians practicing at Children’s Health℠ will answer your questions and work with you to design a care plan that fits your child’s specific needs.