Atypical Genitalia

Overview

Most babies receive a diagnosis of ambiguous genitalia at birth. When it’s unclear if your newborn is male or female, your baby’s healthcare provider will order further tests to determine a diagnosis.

What should I expect at my child’s appointment?

Your baby’s healthcare provider will ask about your family’s medical history and examine your baby’s external genitals. They may order several tests to determine the correct diagnosis. Your baby’s healthcare provider may order:

A blood test to check your baby’s hormone levels and chromosomes.
Imaging tests, including ultrasounds, X-rays or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.
A biopsy or laparoscopy to examine tissue from your baby’s sex organs.

Sometimes, your baby’s healthcare provider can make a quick diagnosis, but sometimes it can take longer. A clear diagnosis is important for defining your baby’s sex and determining the correct treatment.

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Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Freedmans Health Clinic Staff

Living with atrial fibrillation?

Connect with others like you for support and answers to your questions in the Heart Rhythm Conditions support group on Freedmans Health Clinic Connect, a patient community.