It's natural to want to make our children look "normal". Our almost-5-yr-old didn't even show manifestations of this disease until she was about 3 1/2...when her clitoris began to enlarge and she grew pubic hair. After the diagnosis of CAH and tending to her medication, we were faced with the decision to do cosmetic surgery. At first, I wanted it done right away. Then I realized I was doing it for myself. Believe me, our daughter, at 3 1/2, was quite convinced that she was turning into a boy...and talked about it all the time. I thought having it reduced would solve that problem. We met with a psychologist at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore who actually deals with many CAH patients....older children, teenagers, etc. He strongly urged us to NOT do surgery. Aside from physical drawbacks later in life (problems urinating, constant bladder infections), there is the chance of little to no sensation in that area. And, honestly, it wouldn't "cure" that Christina thought she was turning into a boy. We took the approach that "God makes everybody differently....much like daddy is taller than Mr. Smith next door or that mommy has size 11 feet!...the size of your clitoris does not determine your worth as a person." I could go on and on....we are relieved that we didn't rush into surgery. She is coping very well. And, since her medication is at the proper level, the excessive androgen production has stopped. Her clitoris will NOT get any bigger than it is. However, the rest of her body is growing and an enlarged clitoris will eventually not be as noticeable...plus, when her true pubic hair comes in, it'll be almost impossible to determine without really looking. By then, she'll be fully aware of her disease and the decisions my husband and I made when she was young. We'll also make follow-up visits with the psychologist every year. Surgery can always be done later if SHE so desires. Please feel free to e-mail me with any questions. Karen: kbassler@home.com