Intersex is a term that describes a person born with physical sex traits—such as chromosomes, hormones, reproductive anatomy, or genitalia—that don’t fit the typical definitions of male or female. This can look many different ways. Some intersex traits are visible at birth; others may not be discovered until puberty or later in life.
Being intersex is not the same thing as being transgender or non-binary, though many people may belong to more than one of these identities. Intersex describes biological traits, while words like transgender or non-binary describe someone’s gender identity.
It's a common misconception that intersex means someone is "both male and female." This is not true. Intersex traits simply don’t fit neatly into one category. They don’t make a person “two sexes at once."
Intersex people are more common than most people realize. A widely cited estimate suggests about 1.7% of the population is intersex—about as common as people with red hair.
But the true number may be significantly higher. Why? Many intersex traits aren’t visible at birth. Unless someone undergoes genetic or hormonal testing (which most people never do unless there’s another health concern), their intersex variation may never be identified. That means there are likely many more intersex people than reported statistics capture.
What’s clear is this: intersex people are natural part of every community, culture, and country—and always have been.
No one needs to be “fixed.” Sadly, many intersex infants and children have historically been subjected to non-consensual medical interventions to make their bodies conform to societal expectations of “male” or “female.” These surgeries and treatments are often unnecessary, can have lifelong consequences, and are increasingly opposed by intersex advocates and human rights organizations worldwide.
Some intersex people may choose medical treatment later in life, just as anyone might make healthcare decisions based on their own needs. But the key is choice. Every person deserves the right to make decisions about their own body when they are ready.
If you are newly navigating an intersex diagnosis, you might feel relief at having answers—or confusion, grief, anger, or even pride. All of these emotions are valid. It can be overwhelming to process new medical information, navigate family reactions, and figure out what this means for your identity or your health.
Please know: you are whole, exactly as you are. Your experiences and feelings are real, and you deserve respect, compassion, and support. Being intersex doesn't define you. It's just one part of who you are—a beautiful, complex, unique person.
Many intersex people find strength and connection in community. Reaching out to intersex-led organizations, support groups, or others with lived experience can be a powerful step in finding solidarity and affirmation.
Supporting intersex people starts with education and respect:
Small actions, from using respectful language to amplifying intersex voices, make a real difference.
You may also want to read our guide,"How Do I Know If I'm Non-Binary?" which answers several FAQs and introduces a number of common non-binary identities.