Scotland's Clinic Pauses Puberty Blockers for Transgender Youths
Scotland's sole clinic for treating transgender youths pauses new prescriptions of puberty blockers for minors, citing weak medical evidence and the need for more research. The decision is influenced by a recent report and concerns about patient safety.
Key Points
- Scotland's Sandyford clinic pauses new prescriptions of puberty blockers for minors under 18.
- Decision influenced by the Cass Review, citing weak medical evidence.
- Major medical associations in the U.S. support transition-related care for transgender minors.
- 23 U.S. states have enacted bans on gender-affirming care.
- Health care providers in five states could be charged with a felony for providing gender-affirming care to trans minors.
Pros
- Pausing new prescriptions allows for a review of pathways and more research into the safety and long-term impact of therapies.
- Provides psychological support for young people experiencing gender incongruence.
Cons
- May harm trans children and young people according to Scottish Trans, a division of Scotland's Equality Network.