Differences of Sexual Development (DSD)
The Difference of Sexual Development (DSD) team consists of clinical medical social work, psychology, urology, endocrinology, gynecology, and genetics.
These teams work closely with families throughout the development of the child to provide support, education and answer questions.
Our Team
- The DSD Team specializes in the care of individuals with various conditions, including genital ambiguity, Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome, Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia, Gonadal Dysgenesis, Hypospadias, Vaginal Agenesis, and Testicular Regression.
- These teams also assist families with diagnosis disclosure.
- The team meets with families throughout the child’s development to provide support and education on long-term expectations, sexual function, fertility and self-image.
- The THRIVE-DSD team provides long-term follow-up which may begin during the neonatal period, continue through childhood and adolescence, and through the transition to adult care.
Social Work
- Provide initial assessments regarding psychological, social, and financial needs.
- Offer psychosocial support to caregivers and the patient regarding diagnosis.
- Offer psycho-education to develop skills around healthy emotional and sexual well-being.
- Optimize psychosocial function and future sexual function.
- Assist with issues related to body image, disclosure, and relationships.
Endocrinology
- Evaluate and diagnose any underlying hormone abnormalities.
- Explain and educate families about the normal and abnormal processes associated with the diagnosis, including possible effects on fertility.
- Design and monitor a treatment plan that may include hormone replacement or substitution to promote growth and puberty.
Urology
- Evaluate and explain the underlying anatomical condition.
- Discuss the long term functional expectations with patients and families.
- Offer long term follow-up to ensure adequate preparation and transition to adult life.
Psychology
- Work with patients and families to help adjust to the stress of living with a chronic illness.
- Assist with issues related to body image, disclosure, and relationships.
- Can meet regularly with patients to work on significant mood, anxiety, or behavioral issues.
Gynecology
- Aid in diagnosis and evaluation of underlying condition.
- Help diagnose, manage and treat gynecologic conditions.
- Discuss short and long term reproductive and sexual health concerns.
- Assist with menstrual suppression, contraception and hormonal replacement therapy.
Genetic and Genomic Medicine
- Evaluate and diagnose possible underlying genetic causes of condition.
- Consider other medical issues that may arise from a genetic cause.
- Offer information about possible family link and transmission of genetic issue or concern.