اخلاق و تاریخ پزشکی ایران

There is a wide range of controversy in management of patients with disorders of sexual development (DSD) in relation to religion and legal regulation. These disorders are also named as intersex or gender identity disorders (GID). Islam has investigated this disputable dilemma in detail and permits sex change within special conditions. Sex alteration deeply affects individual health and social life as well as family and community.
On the other hand, assisted reproduction technology (ART) is growing fast and shows promises for treatment of a wide spectrum of fertility disorders. All bioethical discussions shall focus on the best interests of the future child.
Searching relevant papers, Islamic jurisprudence and the laws of Iran, this article attempts to highlight related ethical, religious and legal issues with the main focus on ART. Proper counseling and education have very important role in this regard. Team work of experts in the fields of OB/GYN, ethics, genetics, psychology, surgery, endocrinology, and urology is needed to explore the most appropriate management strategy.