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Biology/Do human hermaphrodites exist?

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Expert: - 12/13/2011


Question
Do human hermaphrodites exist?

Answer
Dear Kristian,

There have been no confirmed cases of true human hermaphrodites, in which both male and female reproductive tracts are developed.  There have been cases in other mammal species.

Pseudohermaphroditism is a different matter, and this is known in humans.  You can read about two types here.

Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome:

http://tinyurl.com/7zvbvdp

5-alpha reductase deficiency:

http://tinyurl.com/7mzox5s

Dana

Biology

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Dana Krempels, Ph.D.

Expertise

I can answer biology-related questions in the areas of evolution, zoology, botany, genetics, and ecology. But I don't answer homework questions or provide ideas for your science fair projects. So students please do your learning the right way by reading your text assignments and studying!

Experience

At the University of Miami, I teach Evolution and Biodiversity, Botany, Zoology, Genetics, Ecology, and a variety of seminars (e.g., the Biology and Evolution of Human Gender Roles).

Education/Credentials
I have a B.S. in Biology and an A.B. in English from the University of Southern California (1980). I earned my Ph.D. in Biology in the area of evolutionary biology/visual physiology from the University of Miami in 1989.

Past/Present Clients
I am currently an "expert" in both the "Rabbits" and "Wild Animals" categories.

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