[UGAalum94]

Originally Posted by AKA_Monet

From my advanced molecular genetics classes that included molecular developmental and genetics:

Mostly all human zygotes (after the egg is fertilized by the sperm) before the 8 celled stage (~48 hours) prior to uterine implantation, is "non-sexual" having no sex organs. It is thought, but has not been proven, that a powerful genetic rearrangement occurs at some point causing one of the X chromosomes to become a Y chromosome. I think recently, they have found 1-2 genes that regulate that process and it is epigenetic.

It is testicular formation that makes a male. NOT penile formation. The genes that make the penis are on other chromosomes, not the sex chromosomes.

Even in completely impoverished, malnourished conditions, the segregation of gender at least as the genetic level is maintained. For the areas that there are gross births of pseudo-hermaphrodites, are areas that have chemical environmental hazards, namely lead or PCB's--really nasty crap where babies are born with cyclopia and 8 legs...

This woman-turned-man did not have her female insides surgically removed. She kept her ovaries, oviducts and uterus--the key organs genetically that mandate a female and is strongly regulated by estrogen and progesterone with the hypothalums-pituitary axis. Shutdown with testosterone will only cause facial hair growth or hirusitism, and some features of a man, smaller breast size, and thigh stature, with pelvic movement.

If anything, I would be concerned with fetal health, brain development and behavior as one grows up. If female, it might not be a big deal--except it's fugly... If male, I don't know his package may be limited...

I was really thinking about sex being pretty much set by the time you are born, but it's interesting to know what happens in utero in this regard.