Experiences related to the body, intimacy, and sexuality in intersex individuals (invited speaker)

Objectives This study aimed to explore the experiences of intersex people in relation to their affective and sexual relationships, body, sexuality, and physical intimacy. It also investigated the subjective perception of the persons’ condition, and the ways and times in which their status as intersex emerged. Methods Five interviews with Italian adults with Sex Characteristic Variations were conducted in a non-directive style with the aid of a thematic outline, to allow participants to set their own priorities and respond freely. The interviews were fully transcribed and thematic analysis was carried out on. Four resulting themes were identified. Results The themes deal with 1) participants’ medical history, 2) identity and relationship with the body at different points in the life cycle, 3) prejudice and stigma, and 4) resources. Conclusions Our results show that participants were strongly impacted by their experiences with medicalization and by professionals they encountered. The resulting themes confirm that there is a need for greater visibility in scientific and professional fields such as medicine and psychology, regarding the first-person experiences of intersex people.