What does the term 'intersex' refer to?

The term 'intersex' specifically refers to a biological condition in which an individual is born with atypical sexual anatomy that does not fit typical definitions of male or female bodies. This can include variations in chromosomes, gonads, hormones, or reproductive organs, which may not align strictly with conventional categories of male or female.

Understanding intersex as a biological condition clarifies that it is grounded in physical characteristics rather than gender identity. While gender identity refers to how individuals perceive and express themselves, and can exist outside the binary of male and female, intersex itself strictly pertains to bodily attributes.

The concept recognizes that human biology is diverse and complex, challenging the binary understanding of gender often seen in society. Intersex individuals may identify as male, female, both, or neither, but the classification itself pertains to biological variation. The other options may touch on aspects related to gender identity or legal recognition, but they do not accurately define 'intersex' as a biological condition.