Treated by Dr. Kavya Jonnalagadda at Sree Charith Hospital
Ambiguous genitalia is a rare condition present at birth in which a baby's external genitalia do not look typically male or female. This can make it difficult to assign a clear sex at first glance. The appearance results from variations in how the reproductive organs developed during pregnancy. Dr. Kavya Jonnalagadda, an endocrinologist at Sree Charith Hospital, provides comprehensive evaluation and coordinated care to help families understand the underlying cause and make informed decisions about their child's health and identity.
A baby with typical female chromosomes but genitalia that appear masculinised or not clearly female, often due to excess androgens during development.
A baby with typical male chromosomes but genitalia that appear incompletely masculinised or not clearly male, often due to reduced androgen production or action.
A rare condition in which a child has both ovarian and testicular tissue, with variable chromosome patterns and genital appearance.
Multiple factors can contribute to the development and progression of this condition.
Recognising the signs early gives you more treatment options.
Evaluation begins with a careful physical examination and detailed family history. Investigations such as hormone tests, imaging studies, and genetic analysis help identify the underlying cause. Not every child needs every test; the approach is tailored to each individual case.
From conservative to surgical — we always start with the least invasive option first.
A structured, patient-first approach from first visit to full recovery.
Sree Charith Hospital conducts a thorough physical examination and takes a detailed family and pregnancy history to begin understanding the child's condition.
Hormone assays, karyotyping, and imaging studies are arranged as needed to identify the underlying cause and guide management planning.
The endocrinology team collaborates with specialists in genetics, urology, psychology, and paediatrics to provide comprehensive, family-centred care.
Regular follow-up appointments monitor growth, hormone levels, and psychosocial well-being, with adjustments to treatment as the child develops and individual needs evolve.
What to expect at each phase of recovery.
Focus is on diagnosis, family education, and initiating any necessary hormone replacement. Timelines for decisions vary and are guided by individual clinical findings.
Ongoing monitoring of growth, development, and psychosocial adjustment. Families receive continued counselling and support as new questions arise.
Transition to adult care includes attention to puberty, fertility, sexual health, and long-term psychological well-being. The individual's voice becomes central in all decisions.
Thorough evaluation helps families understand the underlying cause and make decisions aligned with their child's best interests and future autonomy.
Hormone replacement and multidisciplinary care can support typical growth, puberty, and physical health, though individual outcomes vary widely.
Ongoing psychological support aims to help children and families navigate identity, body image, and social challenges, though some individuals may face ongoing distress.
Not all individuals will have reproductive capacity, and surgical interventions may require revision or may not fully meet expectations. Realistic discussions are part of care.
Without evaluation and appropriate care, a child may face untreated hormone imbalances that affect growth, puberty, and overall health. Psychological distress related to gender identity and body image may increase without supportive counselling. In some cases, untreated adrenal conditions can lead to serious metabolic crises.
Ambiguous genitalia is typically noticed at birth, and prompt evaluation by a specialist is important to identify any underlying health concerns and support the family. If a child later shows signs of hormone imbalance, delayed puberty, or distress related to gender identity, consultation with an endocrinologist is advised.
Early treatment means more options and better outcomes. Book a consultation to understand your condition and explore the right path forward.
