Sexual development disorders are associated with a dysfunction of the human endocrine system. Puberty is a period in life during which the development and establishment of many bodily functions related to reproduction occurs. It concludes with sexual maturity. Puberty involves two important aspects – physical maturity and changes at the level of the nervous system. The maturation of sperm in the male body is not a sign of sexual maturity. The process of puberty is initiated by the secretion of gonadotropic hormone by the pituitary gland. There is a sharp increase in hormone production by the pineal gland. Delays in sexual development are not always related to any abnormal phenomena.
Causes
Dysfunctions in the endocrine glands may be associated with inflammatory processes, tumors, and metabolic disorders. In boys, the most active glands are the testes, while in women, they are the ovaries. The pituitary gland and hypothalamus also regulate hormones.
Symptoms of Sexual Development Disorders
The symptoms of disorders in sexual development depend on the age of the children and may include the following:
- the ability to control urination and defecation appears with a delay
- undescended testes in the scrotum
- delayed awareness of the differences between male and female.
Diagnosis of Sexual Development Disorders in Israel
In Israel, diagnosis begins with an assessment of psychological development using special tests. If there are suspicions of sexual development disorders, a series of laboratory and instrumental methods are prescribed to determine the causes of the disorders.
Treatment of Sexual Development Disorders in Israel
In Israel, both conservative and surgical treatments are used for sexual development disorders related to organic causes. Pediatricians and endocrinologists deal with such disorders. Hormonal medications are prescribed for pharmacological therapy. A psychologist is involved to address issues related to psychological, mental, and emotional states.
Prevention
Timely detection of possible disorders in a child's sexual development and adequate treatment.