Louis' turbulent journey: Intersex in Lübeck explained!

Louis' turbulent journey: Intersex in Lübeck explained!

At the Lübeck University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), parents whose children are intersex are offered comprehensive support. An impressive example is Silke from Rhineland-Palatinate, whose son Louis was born with a rare chromosomal anomaly. When Louis was born more than two years ago, he was diagnosed with severe hypospadias and the parents were faced with the crucial question: Is my child intersex? After a genetic test that revealed 78 percent female chromosomes in Louis, the realization was overwhelming for Silke. “First I had to sit down at home and do some research,” she says, her worries hanging over her like a shadow.

The “Consultation hours for people with biological variants of gender development” at the UKSH are a ray of hope for affected families. Parents can receive valuable information and support here. Pediatric and adolescent medicine professor Olaf Hiort explained that intersex variations are rare, but occur in around one in 2,500 children. He emphasizes that many people can live with their physical differences without any problems, while about a quarter may require medical intervention. It used to be common to have gender reassignment surgery at a young age, but today self-determination is a priority. “People should be able to have a say in how they see themselves,” emphasizes Hiort.

Self-determination comes first

Silke is optimistic that Louis will be able to decide on possible operations and hormone therapy during puberty. Despite the challenges that an intersex identity can bring, she is clear: “I have a healthy, wonderful child.” Louis already goes to kindergarten and the teachers are aware of his special features. Silke plans to confidently educate Louis about his unique identity from an early age so that one day he can say for himself: “I am both.” Their trust in the future and the support from experts like at UKSH make them confident about what is to come.