Gonadal Sex

Gonads are the primary reproductive organs. These mixed glands produce gametes (reproductive cells) and sex hormones. Specifically:

• Testicles: The wolffian gonads, located in the scrotum, produce sperm (spermatozoa).
• Ovaries: The müllerian gonads, situated in the pelvic cavity, produce egg cells (oocytes).
• Ovotestis: Mixed gonadal intersex variation.

Gonadal sex refers to the type of gonad present (testicles or ovaries) based on which genes are expressed. There are individuals who remove their gonads, such as through orchiectomy or oophorectomy, individuals who go through sterilization, or experiencing infertility. There are individuals who desire different gonadal sex traits, such as altersex or transsex individuals. Individuals who experience an intersex gonadal variation, including ovotestis but not limited to it, can be considered intergonadal.