Stories of Arab Intersex Individuals

Abstract

Knowledge around intersexuality seems inexistent in the Arab world, with intersex individuals being subject to inhumane practices. A semi-structured interview with Helem, an LGBTQIA+ non-governmental organization in Lebanon, was conducted and three cases of intersex individuals were presented. Views on how to manage intersex individuals seem to differ from one physician to another, with many opting for sex-reassignment surgery due to sociocultural rather than medical reasons. Many physicians showed paternalistic approaches during the decision-making process. Moreover, intersex individuals who had been subject to surgery during their childhood showed high levels of psychiatric symptoms. Additionally, intersex individuals’ parents had high levels of stress and anxiety. To conclude, intersex individuals are being subject to abuse in the Arab world, with no medicolegal framework to protect them. Future efforts should focus on raising awareness about intersex issues, preventing unethical surgeries, and educating physicians on how to properly respond to intersex patients.