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Warning-sign checks

Ambiguous genitalia: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    As they mature, they should participate more fully in decisions and learn which medical details matter in an emergency.

    People with adrenal insufficiency need a clinician-provided emergency plan.

    Vomiting may prevent oral medicine from being absorbed.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek urgent care during significant illness, especially with repeated vomiting, severe weakness, unusual sleepiness, or dehydration.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Follow-up is often long term.

    Visits may monitor growth, blood pressure, hormone levels, medication effects, puberty, urinary and bone health, and emotional well-being.

    Transition from pediatric to adult care should be planned.

    Adult follow-up may address hormones, sexual health, fertility, tumor-risk monitoring, mental health, and questions about previous treatment.

The article also says

Children should gradually receive accurate, age-appropriate information about their body and diagnosis.

Seek earlier medical review for new urinary problems, groin swelling, unexpected puberty changes, missed periods, medication difficulties, or concerns about growth and development.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Ambiguous genitalia. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.