What is the Origin of Fetal Feminization?

This term is derived from developmental biology and clinical endocrinology, describing the morphological outcome of disrupted sexual differentiation in utero. The term highlights the default developmental pathway toward female morphology in the absence of effective androgen action.

What is the Mechanism of Fetal Feminization?

Normal male sexual development is dependent on the testicular production of testosterone and its peripheral conversion to the more potent dihydrotestosterone (DHT) by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. Fetal feminization typically arises from a defect in either the synthesis of androgens, such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia, or a genetic mutation in the androgen receptor itself, known as Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS). The lack of functional androgen signaling prevents the development of male secondary sex characteristics, leading to the observed undervirilization.

Fetal Feminization ∞ Area

Fetal Feminization

Meaning

Fetal feminization is a developmental anomaly where a genetically male (XY) fetus fails to undergo the expected virilization of its internal and external genitalia during critical periods of gestation. This results in a spectrum of disorders of sex development (DSD), ranging from ambiguous genitalia to a complete female-typical external appearance. The condition is a direct consequence of a disruption in the androgen signaling pathway, which is essential for male sexual differentiation.