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In a surprising medical case that has captivated Chinese social media, a man identified only as Xiao Chen (a pseudonym) discovered he is biologically female after seeking medical advice regarding infertility.
Xiao Chen married his wife over a year ago, and the couple began trying to conceive. After months of unsuccessful attempts, they visited a reproductive medical center at a district women’s hospital. Initial tests revealed that Xiao Chen had abnormal development in both testicles and an absence of sperm in his semen. This prompted further investigations, including a Y-chromosome microdeletion test, which revealed an unexpected result: Xiao Chen's Y chromosome was missing entirely.
Subsequent chromosomal analysis confirmed that Xiao Chen has a 46,XX chromosomal pattern - the same as a typical female. Doctors diagnosed him with 46,XX Male Syndrome, a rare congenital genetic condition affecting approximately 1 in 20,000 males. Individuals with this syndrome are genetically female but develop male physical characteristics due to the presence of male hormones.
“Chromosomes determine biological sex: females have 46,XX chromosomes, and males have 46,XY. In Xiao Chen’s case, his chromosomal structure matches that of his wife,” the doctor explained. Both Xiao Chen and his wife were reportedly stunned by the news.
Though the condition is exceedingly rare, the couple has options if they wish to conceive. The doctor suggested assisted reproductive techniques, such as Artificial Insemination by Donor (AID), using donor sperm to help them achieve their dream of having children.
The case has sparked significant debate on Chinese social media platforms like Weibo, with the hashtag “Husband Turns Out to Be Female After Marriage” trending widely. Many netizens were sympathetic to the couple’s situation. One commenter wrote, “This must be such a shock for them. I hope they can find a way to move forward.” Others applauded Xiao Chen for seeking medical advice, addressing the stigma surrounding male infertility.
“This story reminds us that infertility is not just a ‘woman’s issue.’ Men also play a crucial role and should not hesitate to get tested,” another user commented. Doctors echoed this sentiment, noting that societal pressures often discourage men from undergoing fertility evaluations. “Early diagnosis and intervention can save couples time and emotional distress,” the reproductive specialist involved in Xiao Chen’s case emphasized.
