EBB 361 - Supporting Intersex Communities during Birth with Niki Khanna and Catherine Clune-Taylor, Co-Presidents of InterACT

Most parents are told their baby is either a boy or a girl. But what happens when a baby is born with intersex traits—and how can birth workers and clinicians respond with compassion, accuracy, and care? In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Dekker speaks with Niki Khanna, MA, MFT, and Dr. Catherine Clune-Taylor, co-presidents of InterACT, about how to support families when a baby’s physical sex characteristics don’t fit binary expectations. Together, they explore how often this occurs, what parents are typically told in the hospital, and why rushed decisions about infant genital surgery can cause lasting harm. They also share powerful insights on how to provide affirming care, connect families with community, and ensure every baby is welcomed with dignity.

 

(05:43) What Does “Intersex” Mean and How Common Is It?

(09:05) Why Many Intersex Traits Aren’t Identified at Birth

(13:36) Understanding CAH and Newborn Screening

(17:24) The History of Infant Surgeries and Gonadectomies

(19:49) What Parents Are Told—And Why It’s Often Incomplete

(29:06) Ethics, Consent, and Who Gets to Decide

(35:40) Why Intersex Babies Deserve Affirming, Informed Care

(42:20) Barriers to Care for Intersex Youth and Adults

 

Resources

• Learn more: interactadvocates.org | Instagram
• Find support groups: InterConnect
• Documentary on YouTube, "Intersexion: Boy or Girl?" click here

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