Concern after HHS report advocates for therapy for trans kids over gender-affirming care
The report also raised concerns about hormone therapies, which are often used in gender-affirming care for older teens. It claimed there is low evidence that hormone therapies are safe or effective in treating gender dysphoria, and “high certainty evidence” that they can cause cardiovascular disease and various cancers.
However, studies have shown that hormone therapies have been beneficial for many transgender individuals, improving their quality of life and reducing feelings of gender dysphoria. The American Medical Association has stated that hormone therapy is a medically necessary treatment for transgender individuals.
Criticism and Response
The HHS report has faced criticism from LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, medical professionals, and transgender individuals. They argue that the report is based on outdated and biased information, and that it ignores the overwhelming consensus among medical experts that gender-affirming care is the most effective treatment for gender dysphoria.
Dr. Karasic noted that the report fails to acknowledge the lived experiences of transgender individuals who have benefited from gender-affirming care. He emphasized the importance of individualized care and the autonomy of patients in making decisions about their own healthcare.
In response to the report, LGBTQ+ advocacy groups have called for continued support for gender-affirming care and the rights of transgender individuals to access the care they need. They have emphasized the importance of listening to and centering the voices of transgender individuals in discussions about their healthcare.
Conclusion
The debate over transgender care for children and teens continues to be a contentious issue, with conflicting views on the most appropriate treatments. While the HHS report raises concerns about the safety and efficacy of gender-affirming care, many medical professionals and LGBTQ+ advocates argue that the evidence overwhelmingly supports the use of these treatments.
Ultimately, the well-being and autonomy of transgender youth should be central in any discussions about their healthcare. It is important to consider the diverse needs and experiences of transgender individuals and to provide them with the care and support they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.
Puberty-pausing medications have been a topic of discussion in recent years, especially when used in children for temporary periods of time. These medications serve as a “completely reversible pause button” on puberty, allowing children more time to explore their gender identity without the physical changes that come with puberty. While some may have concerns about the long-term effects of these medications, experts suggest that they are generally safe and reversible.
According to a report from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), side effects related to sexual function or bone density are usually seen among adults who take similar medications for conditions like prostate cancer or endometriosis. In children, the long-term effects of puberty-pausing medications are not well understood, but experts believe that any potential side effects are likely to be temporary.
The report also discussed the use of cross-sex hormones, or hormone therapies, in children with gender dysphoria. While these therapies can carry some side effects, studies have shown that they can greatly improve the mental health of individuals with gender dysphoria. Hormone therapies have been used in pediatric and adolescent medicine for a long time and are considered standard pharmacology in the practice of medicine.
Controversy surrounds the topic of surgeries for children or adolescents with gender dysphoria, with most studies focusing on mastectomy, known as “top surgery.” The report found low certainty of evidence on the effects of gender-affirming surgeries on adolescents, including suicidality, depression, sexual function, quality of life, and regret. It is important to note that there are no gender-affirming genital surgeries performed on minors, and surgeries for young children are extremely rare and require extensive oversight and parental consent.
The HHS report advocates for the use of psychotherapy as a treatment for children and adolescents with gender dysphoria. Psychotherapy is considered a noninvasive alternative to endocrine and surgical interventions and has been found to have no adverse effects in this context. While psychotherapy can be used to treat symptoms of anxiety and depression, it should not be considered a substitute for gender-affirming care. Overall, the long-term effects of puberty-pausing medications and other treatments for gender dysphoria are still being studied, but experts believe that these interventions can greatly improve the quality of life for individuals struggling with their gender identity. The debate over gender-affirming care for minors continues to stir controversy, with conflicting opinions on the best approach to supporting transgender and gender non-conforming youth. While some argue for the benefits of therapy as an alternative to medical intervention, the medical community stands firm in its support for gender-affirming care.
Dr. Karasic, a leading voice in the field, emphasizes that psychotherapy can be a valuable tool for young people exploring their gender identity. However, he asserts that medical intervention is often necessary in conjunction with therapy to provide comprehensive care. He highlights the lack of evidence supporting therapy as a standalone substitute for gender-affirming treatments.
The American Academy of Pediatrics has issued a statement expressing concern over recent reports questioning the effectiveness of gender-affirming care. The organization, along with several other medical groups, emphasizes the importance of considering all available data and clinical outcomes when evaluating the best course of treatment for transgender youth. They caution against restricting access to evidence-based care and emphasize the importance of maintaining the patient-physician relationship.
Despite the medical community’s support for gender-affirming care, anti-LGBTQ+ legislation continues to pose a threat to the rights and well-being of transgender individuals. More than 500 bills targeting LGBTQ+ rights have been introduced in the 2024 legislative session, according to the ACLU. Dr. Ladinsky warns against the harmful impact of these bills, noting that they do not address the underlying issues of gender dysphoria and can have detrimental effects on the health of transgender youth.
In conclusion, the ongoing debate surrounding gender-affirming care highlights the need for evidence-based, compassionate approaches to supporting transgender and gender non-conforming youth. The medical community’s endorsement of gender-affirming treatments underscores the importance of providing comprehensive care that addresses the unique needs of each individual. It is crucial to prioritize the well-being and rights of transgender youth in the face of discriminatory legislation and misinformation.
