DSD stands for differences in sex development. MRKH is one type of DSD, but there are hundreds of other variations and people with different DSD (AKA Intersex) traits. Listen in to learn a bit about different types of DSD's and check out the resources below to learn more.
On this episode Ellamae speaks to Gabs and Esme who manage the Instagram community and support page for all types of DSD's called @yourpace.dsd which is managed by U.K. Charity and the most in depth resource for all types of DSD's - DSD Families.
https://www.dsdfamilies.org/charity
Gabs has MRKH and Esme has CAIS Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome, they are working to ensure no one with a DSD feels alone and we can't thank these two DSD warriors enough for coming on to share their personal stories. They work they do is so admirable and I am so glad to have had them on the Pod.
Gabs shares what it has been like having a DSD (MRKH Syndrome) and being a black female, she says there has been an additional stigma growing up and lots more representation is needed in the DSD community as to make sure no one feels alone, you must be able to find someone that looks like you so her involvement in advocacy and feeling part of a bigger community after joining with DSD families is so lovely to hear about. Esme shares with us her story of knowing she had a DSD her whole life, she talks about the surgery she had when she was born to growing with confidence as a young girl with CAIS - through relationships, friendships, mental health and more!
Please note- as I am not a medical expert if I have incorrectly explained anything on this Pod please get in touch [email protected] and please use DSD families website as your medical resource. Our Podcast is to raise awareness, chat informally and ensure no body feels alone but we are not a medical podcast.
CAIS https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/androgen-insensitivity-syndrome/
MRKH https://www.mindovermrkh.org/mrkhanatomy https://www.mrkh.org.uk/mrkh.html
Turners syndrome https://tss.org.uk/
Other DSD's: https://www.dsdfamilies.org/charity
This Podcast is receiving regular sponsorship from our friends and charity MRKH Connect.
Listen to our full intro here
MRKH Connect is a UK charity designed to connect those with MRKH and provide support to those with MRKH and their families through events, resources and public outreach to raise awareness for MRKH. Their private Members area provides a safe space for those with MRKH from all over the world to connect and share together in a safe environment and find comfort talking with those who truly understand what having MRKH is like.
