Scientists have used mice to better understand human reproduction because mice and our endocrine, nervous and reproductive systems are very similar. Von Saal (University Missouri)1 noticed that if a pregnant, non-medicated mouse had a male embryo surrounded by female embryos, then the male would display female characteristics due to greater female hormone exposure. Conversely, a female embryo surrounded by males would show male characteristics; however, a clutch of one sex or equal distribution of sexes would produce offspring with “expected” sex behaviors. There’s no “normal,” because normal is diversity. Unfortunately, individuals who have physical attributes of one sex yet show behaviors of the opposite sex are often socially chastised.

Source: Daily Sun August 13, 2023 22:12 UTC