Once a dark secret

It has taken 12 years for me to admit to having testicular feminisation syndrome, but having reached this stage I consider it important to share my perspective on the condition and the counselling that is essential for those in a similar position. If the following narrative seems melodramatic is is unintentional, but it puts my case into perspective and provides a context for my recommendations for managing the condition.

At the age of 15 I was told by a school doctor that I would be “starting my periods very soon” - I did not. I saw my general practitioner who read through my clinical notes. I had been treated for hernias as a child. He referred me to a gynaecologist who examined my thoroughly and quizzed me about my sex life - a traumatic experience for a naive and sheltered virgin. I was told that I would need an operation to remove the gonads. I was studying …