AFAB Hypogonadism

The AFAB Hypogonadism flag.

AFAB Hypogonadism is an intersex trait - more specifically, a form of hypogonadism - leading to a reduction in the output of female sex hormones including estrogen and progesterone in AFAB or CTF people, due to decreased functionality of the ovaries. Hypogonadism can be primary, meaning it's caused by a problem with the ovaries, or it can be secondary hypogonadism, meaning it's caused by a problem with the signals sent from the brain to the ovaries.

One symptom includes the effects of low estrogen, which will cause one to not begin menstruation and will having slow or absent breast growth. Those with acquired hypogonadism will stop menstruating and will experience symptoms of menopause, including lowered sex drive, loss of body hair, and hot flashes. This will occasionally cause extra production in testosterone, which may caused more masculine or androgynous traits to develop.

Causes

Hypogonadism can be congenital or it can be acquired. Acquired hypogonadism may be caused by infections, radiation, certain autoimmune disorders, some chronic illnesses, severe stress, or damage to the pituitary gland through drugs, radiation, or surgery.

Congenital hypogonadism may, in some cases, be caused by the conditions listed below:

• Gene mutations
• Chromosomal abnormalities
• Horomonal abnormalities (such as increased testosterone)
• 17-AH Deficiency
• Aromatase Deficiency
• Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
• Gonadal Agenesis (Ovarian Agenesis)
• Gonadal Dysgenesis
• Müllerian Agenesis
• Turner Syndrome

Resources

1. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000390.htm