Articles related to GENDER-AFFIRMING CARE

Experts highlighted ongoing barriers and knowledge gaps affecting reproductive care for transgender and gender-diverse patients while outlining strategies to support pregnancy, postpartum care, and fertility discussions in affirming clinical environments.

“There is growing reason to believe [puberty blockers] are exacerbating the very dysphoria they are supposed to resolve and placing vulnerable children on a largely self-reinforcing path toward permanent transitions, often with serious and lasting physical consequences.” – Dr. Julia Mason

“The lived experience of youth who identify as TGD cannot be ignored and the belief that all youth have the inherent right to mental health care — regardless of gender or gender-identity — is reaffirmed.”

Gender-affirming surgery, while beneficial in affirming gender identity, is associated with increased risk of mental health issues, underscoring the need for ongoing, gender-sensitive mental health support for transgender individuals’ post-surgery.

Analysis of more than 5 million adolescent insurance claims reveals that gender-affirming medication prescriptions remain exceptionally rare, with peak rates reaching only 140.16 per 100,000 at age 17 for AFAB adolescents.

Current evidence indicates positive mental health outcomes with gender-affirming care, with studies showing decreased rates of depression, self-harm, and suicidal ideation among treated adolescents.