Paradigms Revised: Intersex Children, Bioethics & the Law

Ms. Hermer explores the controversy surrounding the management of intersex infants and children in America. Her focus on the areas of medical malpractice and informed consent leads her to the conclusion that contrary to some recommendations, a moratorium on cosmetic genital and sex assignment surgeries for infants and children is not warranted. Rather, providers should focus on offering parents with complete information, referrals to support groups and forthright discussions on the dearth of information available.