




What causes AIS?


This genetic fault means that, despite being genetically male, the body doesn't respond to testosterone (the male sex hormone) properly and male sexual development doesn't happen as normal.

This means the penis doesn't form or is underdeveloped. The child's genitals may appear female, or between male and female, but they don't have a womb or ovaries and have fully or partially undescended testicles.

Women who carry the genetic fault won't have AIS themselves, but there's a one in four chance each child they have will be born with the condition.

Read more about the causes of AIS.

Types of AIS

There are two main types of AIS, which are determined by how much the body is able to use testosterone. These are:

  • partial androgen insensitivity syndrome (PAIS) – where testosterone still has some effect on sexual development, so the genitals are often between male and female

PAIS is usually noticed at birth because the genitals appear different.


Read more about the symptoms of AIS and diagnosing AIS.

Living with AIS

Children with AIS and their parents are supported by a team of specialists, who will offer ongoing care and support. They will help you decide whether to raise your child as a girl or a boy while they're still very young.




Read more about how AIS is treated.

Support and advice

You and your child will be offered psychological support to help you understand and cope with the diagnosis of AIS. Children may not need this while they're very young, but they usually do as they get older.


You may also find it helpful to get in touch with a support group, such as the Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome Support Group (AISSG) and DSD Families.

Gender identity and gender dysphoria





Page last reviewed: 14/01/2016

Next review due: 14/01/2018