“I Was Born With Male and Female Parts” | Listen Up | ABC Science

In the womb, Stephanie was meant to develop male. But an issue with her adrenal glands reversed the process. Subscribe to ABC Science KZbin: ab.co/2YFO4Go Secret Science - Stream now on ABC iview: ab.co/StreamABCiview
Big thanks to Stephanie for sharing her story.
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or CAH, is a group of conditions that affects the adrenal glands. These glands, which sit above the kidneys, make hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone and androgens (male sex hormones). The effects of CAH vary significantly from person to person, depending on the type of CAH. Read more: www.healthdirect.gov.au/conge...
Intersex is an umbrella term for over 30 different conditions with varying degrees of impact. For some, intersex features are noticeable from birth, while others don’t realise until they try for children. For more information, read: www.healthdirect.gov.au/inter... Or for support in Australia, InterLink provides confidential fee-free, short-term counselling: www.ilink.net.au/
#ListenUp #ABCScience #Intersex
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[@ABCScience]

Big thanks to Stephanie for sharing her story ❤Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or CAH, is a group of conditions that affects the adrenal glands. These glands, which sit above the kidneys, make hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone and androgens (male sex hormones). The effects of CAH vary significantly from person to person, depending on the type of CAH. Read more: www.healthdirect.gov.au/congenital-adrenal-hyperplasia Intersex is an umbrella term for over 30 different conditions with varying degrees of impact. For some, intersex features are noticeable from birth, while others don’t realise until they try for children. For more information, read: www.healthdirect.gov.au/intersex-variation Or for support in Australia, InterLink provides confidential fee-free, short-term counselling: www.ilink.net.au/ Secret Science - Stream now on ABC iview: ab.co/StreamABCiview

[@BillAngler]

I wonder if the people who dont realize until they try for children have mild forms of intersex conditions, or if they have complete or major forms of intersex conditions, that make them like the opposite of there gentic gender. I think some of them have complete forms that make them look the opposite of there genetic condition. I want to know if people with complete forms appear completely normal.

[@hsugraduation2103]

No one should ever be humiliated over a birth defect.

[@almariekuit56]

Awww. It breaks my heart that anyone could be that mean. You're beautiful and brave. Thank you. ❤

[@g.strobl4458]

And you have a gorgeous smile, Stephany. Hope you get to feel like smiling a lot. 😊

[@alanb2325]

Thank you sister, for sharing. I was a DES baby and had a surgery on my testes when I entered puberty which resulted in the doctors finding that I had non functioning but fully developed female reproductive organs, which they removed after a fight broke out between my pediatrician and the urologist as to whether I should be assigned female or male gender. I spent years on hormones to " keep him from developing genital cancer". It didn't work. I also developed gynacomastia and have to have regular mamograms. I learned to live with being myself after years of rejection, physical pain and humiliation and the horrors of well meaning but knife happy urologists and endocrinologists. Be strong, stay strong. You inspired me to write about my condition for the first time ever. Thank you.

[@timpsonsampson5042]

Nothing wrong in being born intersex, but what is wrong is doctors choosing what sex you should be by performing surgery on a child that is under the age of consent

[@heisdeadjim]

It has been my honour to have known Steph for several years now. She is my inspiration

[@MrRuralJuror]

She’s remarkable - her strength and resilience shine through!

[@sarahmacintosh6449]

Thank you, Stephanie. Education and exposure is how we reduce stigma, so I really appreciate you sharing your story 😊

[@BenSussmanpro]

I don’t know how this story ended up in my feed, but I watched it and am really impressed by how she dealt with her situation with apparent grace, maturity & humor, though I’m sure it’s been difficult. I think any friend or suitor would be lucky to have her.

[@wdwerker]

I think schools should be required to address bullying and not sweep it under the rug. Bullies should be made to understand the repercussions of their actions and their parents too! If the parents had to pay therapy bills might be a good start, for their kids as well as their victims. Intersex people should have advocates and protections from birth. Parents should be advised of the consequences by intersex people who have grown up with the aftermath of doctor’s recommendations. These children should be protected from religious pressures too.

[@BillAngler]

The kids need better supervision on the playground. But teachers don't want to surpervise, but the government wont force the teachers to do it and wont pay for other supervisors. Even if they do, most supervisors arent meant for the job. In class, the kids bully through whispering and the teacher either cant hear or does not care.

[@quattron-1126]

Stephanie. I only see a very beautiful woman who has nothing to be ashamed of with a caring heart enough to love the world ❤

[@BradGryphonn]

Thanks for sharing your life with us, Stephanie.

[@lazzstreets3072]

She’s so brave for telling this to the world. I’m so glad you were able to find happiness. You’re incredible beautiful and sweet.

[@ChoompaLoompa1985-uw8lw]

You are a wonderful, beautiful person Stephanie. It's heartwarming that you found your voice and are able to share it. Thank you.

[@itsame1277]

So good to hear you triumphed over ignorant people and are now at ease with yourself. All the best Stephanie.

[@tinalarkin2642]

Soo happy t hear you found your tribe of people, your not ashamed of your body, and are talking openly about your story. 💜

[@TeanmaResanaria-ls9eu]

Thank you for being so brave and sharing your story! I feel so bad for you because of all the bullying! It's a shame what those kids did to you. 😢 I would have liked to be your friend at that time! I also went through a difficult childhood because of severe traumatization from my parents, but I was lucky enough to have friends at school. You would have deserved that experience as well, you seem so friendly and kind. Besides that every child deserves friends. I am so glad that you are having good friends now that support you and like you no matter what. ❤

[@morwaengmotswasele5204]

"it is normal to be different" is such a powerful statement and opens a new reality of human interaction. Thank you for this reality check❤

[@georgeofthejungle6095]

Brave people like you teach others to be more accepting. Good for you.

[@scottlawson9206]

Stephanie, what an amazing story and journey! Kids can be agonizingly cruel- honestly, more so than adults. I'm sorry that you endured that awful quality of kids. But I'm SO glad that you have come into your own, and that you're now such a strong person that you can speak aloud about it. Kudos to you, and if I had ten thumbs, I'd be giving you ten thumbs up right now! It's such positive people like you with whom I would love to enjoy a beer or cup of tea. You are an inspiration for all! 💘

[@kerrycusack9262]

I am so sorry that you had to endure mean people. You are a beautiful young woman and thank you for having the courage to share your story.

[@haydenwalton2766]

this is by far the most amazing, the most astonishing thing ive seen this year - the abc hasn't turned off the comments.

[@g.strobl4458]

Thanks, it really looked like they had. :-) I, too, thought this was very interesting. :-)

[@gastinesylvestre2571]

Thank you Staphanie for sharing your experience. Your are a strong person and I appreciate the way you take it. You are not alone.

[@amygb]

Thank you for sharing your experiences. I can only imagine and hope that there are countless people feeling empowered and educated. I'm so sorry for the bullying you experienced. I believe that when we know better, we can do better.

[@suzieleach6036]

Thank you for sharing your story! Such an inspiration.

[@gnuir]

This is one of the best narrated short videos I have ever seen. Amazingly well paced and articulated! Thank you ❤️

[@moremoola]

What an amazing young woman. So beautiful, intelligent brave and soooo kind! You are a blessing to this world. Stay amazing!

[@annasutton8078]

So brave of you to share this about your life. To your credit, you seem a really together young woman.

[@elinordrake9716]

Thank you for sharing your story, you did a wonderful job!

[@sparkyswearsalot]

I really wish doctors would stop doing those surgeries on intersex babies. I know they think they're "fixing" them, but it seems to be becoming clear that it's unnecessary and the child should get to just grow up.

[@amirnaserebrahimi1424]

Thanks for sharing your story. It really helps people to understand the differences in the world. Also, your story is way different from those who just think they have a problem!

[@ianclarke3627]

You're gorgeous

[@dr.graves5541]

Bless your beautiful heart. What you are contributing to make the world a better more empathetic place, cannot even be measured.

[@user-oy7si9wj8v]

Your courage and bravery to speak to the world about your personal life and the challenges you face are truly remarkable and inspiring. Wish you all the best in the world! ✨

[@mixey01]

Beautiful on the outside and she has a beautiful heart on the inside. Keep being that strong person that you are Stephanie

[@kelliford2910]

"Normal to be different "..brave girl,you DO need to pick you.👏

[@dealundquist4236]

Thank you for sharing this! You are a strong young woman, you ate going to do well in life! A lot of people admire you and love you!

[@rubinbrown8142]

Great story, glad you are happy!! Everyone should be happy, your an inspiration !

[@1tx.s3nu]

so proud of you girl we support you all the way everyday from fernando family (next door)

[@manofthehour6856]

Stephanie is such a beautiful woman in every way, and I laud her for her courage and determination. It's the mark of a survivor who can take what life throws at us, even at times it feels grossly unfair. To publicly discuss such an intensely personal matter also takes courage many other people would not have. It's amazing how nasty people can be, and I suspect it is a very negative human trait of the insecure to create an "enemy" of someone somehow different in order to build community of people who are the same....basically tribalism. That "outing" for lack of a better term is disgraceful. Fortunately, Stephanie is exceptionally intelligent, and obviously has loving parents who nurtured her, especially through the difficult times. Many things in our lives are out of our control, but people with a strong sense of right and wrong and who know to follow the path of righteousness are the winners for themselves, and for society. I hope that all those children have grown up and feel remorseful for their cruel and damaging behavior selfishly done to boost their own ego. But if they have not, I hope they see this, and understand the story from the perspective of Stephanie, who is an unwilling lightning rod who bear the brunt of their entirely unwarranted cruelty. May they have empathy, and that their poor decisions be a reminder in future situations. Be well, Stephanie. You are a hero.

[@gbubemia]

This is an enlightening documentary. Thank you!

[@bevwest7428]

Thank you so much for sharing your story. You are helping so many others.

[@bps1963]

Stephanie, you are more normal than those who look at you in a different way. You are so brave to share your story and I'm sure it will motivate and encourage many.

[@alyssaoconnor]

All People are born in different shapes, colours and sizes and yours is Beautiful 😊. I have always found it strange that people face criticism for being born the way they are, thank you for breaking the cycle with awareness.

[@Riverrage_03]

I’ve always been small and felt self conscious I can’t even comprehend wht it must been like! You must be so strong ❤

[@johns9928]

Thank you Stephanie, for telling your story and educating the masses...Love and Prayers from an Italian-American Male, Conservative, Republican, Catholic, NYer

[@serge6038]

She’s so sweet! I wish her all the best in life. This story enlightened my day ☺️

[@gdionwood]

Kudos to you for having the courage to be yourself and speak out about your struggles thanks to the evils of this world. Bullying people that are deemed different than the norm should be a crime.

[@jay-cm3hb]

Your an inspiration and very strong beautiful lady, your story will help others and your journey through all the hard times has made you so brave, it's so lovely to see you smile at the end of this, I wish you all the happiness in your future.

[@letitiacrisler4781]

I learned so much that I didn't know. Thank you for sharing. You are beautiful and brave

[@kalengera]

You're such wonderful personality, body language full of confidence the way you express yourself. Thats a blessing.

[@gabrielvdenton]

Thank you for sharing your story!

[@SamW604]

Thanks for sharing your story. You are a role model for how to overcome adversity and challenges.

[@esousa486]

God Bless Stephanie, ..... She is a brave person for being so open, and explaining her story to us ....... HIGHEST RESPECT to her !!!

[@catherinethemba]

Beautiful lady I am sorry for what you have been through. Bless you. With love from South Africa.

[@aterriblething9760]

Thank you for being so strong. You're an inspiration and a beautiful person.

[@julianichols6356]

Wow! You are such an amazing, strong, and beautiful young woman. Thank you for sharing your powerful message. I love that - “we are all different so it’s normal” fantastic! . Big love to you ❤️❤️❤️

[@sandrodepellegrin7555]

Thank you for sharing this!

[@Boajhdk]

Very moving story ❤

[@alienatedd]

thank you for sharing your story!

[@guimauve2000]

What a beautiful, elegant, eloquent young woman. Thank you, Stephanie, for sharing your story. I hope your life brings you everything you dream of.

[@davebeaumont6478]

Stephanie. That would be a hard thing to go through. I'm so glad that you can talk about your story and the feelings you went through. Most of all you are able to accept how you look and feel, and if they can't accept you then they are missing out on a very beautiful girl and who is absolutely gorgeous. Take care and good luck in your many endeavors. ❤

[@jadw33]

Thank you for sharing your story. I wish you the very best in life.

[@NVKProductions]

Beautifully made video 🤍 love her !

[@johnmcgreevy6495]

Iam just a man from Belfast and think your more a woman than most I know just belive in the fact that being a mum is no thought blood but thought how much you are there and how much l9ve you share please remember this and your a true inspiration

[@michaelau5159]

Being who we are is so important. Lovely outcome to a tear jerking story.

[@PS-Straya_M8]

Thank you for sharing. I wish you all the best for the future 😁

[@fredericksharon7494]

I'm so sorry for your pain. You are a fighter and will beat all this, keep your chin up, the most wonderful thing is going to happen soon, stay the course!!!!

[@mightyginza3182]

Gosh!...you're such a wonderful and Brilliant person. Thank you so much for sharing your story, you've liberated millions of other human beings around the world. I wish you all the best going forward and Special Greetings from South Africa 💐 💖 🎉

[@seanronayne3654]

Thanks for the WONDERFUL education.

[@tommoriarty8361]

You’re a very Bonny Girl, as we like to say here in Glasgow - God bless you, stay safe, and thanks for sharing your story ❤

[@Divchyk]

Stephanie, you are beautiful not only visually, but your internal light of goodness is shining through ✨️

[@firstname__lastname]

What a wonderful remodel. If you have the voice and resources speak for the ones who don’t! ❤❤❤

[@4thorder]

You are a beautiful person, regardless of what you were or were not born as. I know I would care less about any of that. I love how open you are about this now because it will help others.

[@dougalexander7204]

Thank you for being brave. I support you as a lovely person.

[@davewong4834]

You are so inspirational. Thanks again!

[@StephSancia]

childhood gender issues is probably one of the most soul destroying issues to experience at a young age especially at school. Other children can be extremely heinous and that in turn affects education, self esteem and motivation. Sharing your story is probably pretty difficult but all kudos Stephanie, Live life and Go Well 🌸🕊️

[@dr.pardonmwansa9651]

Thank you for sharing your story. To be different is okay. You are not alone.

[@BigLebowski324]

What an amazing and powerful story. She’s a beacon of light for the rest of us. ❤

[@moleculemagician8616]

Thank you for sharing.

[@michaelmallett7237]

Stephanie is an inspiring and beautiful individual. I wish her great happiness, and would be proud to be a friend of someone like her. I’m sorry that society is never more stupid than it is on questions of sexual identity.

[@osricen]

She seems like a wonderful person, so beautiful and UNIQUE. A treasure! And I hope she knows it and remembers it every day now. ❤

[@monicadaniels784]

You are awesome! Thank you for telling your story.

[@whatrtheodds]

Thankyou for sharing. You have a beautiful personality ❤

[@Tiagotaf]

She's so stunning it's unreal. People who insulted her were just jealous.

[@Chris_L.]

Lovely video; thank you.

[@jenniferrucker2266]

Being born like this can be both a blessing and a vexation…..a double edge sword. My heart goes out to her.

[@dgoncalves81]

So amazing - so beautiful - and such a powerful story! 👏💜👏

[@kthippie6004]

She's beautiful inside and out! We're all unique in our own special way. Thank you for sharing this story. 😍

[@jamesproudlove1527]

You condition is extremely rare. Thank you for sharing with us, how you cope on a daily basis.

[@EmisoraRadioPatio]

Humanity will benefit from your courage to speak about your journey. Thank you.

[@C1nderfire]

You go! So glad you made your way to the happiest life ever.

[@keidwyn]

Loved hearing you ,yes we are ALL different ,my difference is I was born without parents who could care for me so I was placed in care ,the orphan crazy weirdo was my bully mantra and IPICK ME is a beautiful reminder that im going to use ,Thank you for showing the world the beauty in difference

[@minimaker5057]

I’m sorry for what you have been through. I hope you will be happy.

[@nooneanymoore9971]

Beautiful and brilliant in ALL of the very best ways❤

[@melusine826]

Those kids were awful😢

[@bradthurkle7217]

Kids can be so cruel. Amazing story. Up lifting. Amazing young lady.

[@agoretoy]

Stephanie, you are a remarkable human being, and a very beautiful lady, - not because of peculiar biology, but because of your way of taking it to the world. God Bless you in all your endeavors! - ..and you do have an AMAZING smile!

[@rescuegirl]

I was born intersex, and was assigned female at birth, but the doctors withheld this information from me until I turned age 16.

[@AutismoGamer]

Your Parents*. Doctors have no control over the information your fed. Your parents control that 😂

[@darrellclark9596]

Im from an island, its called Oahu Hawaii. I just saw your tetimonial and I want you to know I am your friend. And know that you are loved❤

[@shaneschwieters9858]

Please don’t let this get you down, keep your head up you’re worth it!