Medical Care for Children and Adolescents with Gender Dysphoria and Gender Inconsistency in Light of Current Recommendations: How to Implement the 'Primum Non Nocere' Principle?
September 2023
in “
Fides et Ratio
”
TLDR The safety and effectiveness of gender-affirming treatments for children are uncertain, with potential long-term risks like infertility.
The document discusses the increasing trend of using puberty blockers and sex steroids in children and adolescents with gender dysphoria or gender inconsistency to inhibit the development of their natal sexual characteristics and mimic those of their identified gender. It highlights the lack of evidence regarding the effectiveness and safety of these gender-affirming therapies, as well as the potential influence of peer groups and media on the rise of gender identity disorders. The paper also notes the serious long-term consequence of infertility associated with these treatments and mentions that some countries, like Sweden, have tightened legal regulations in response. The bioethical and legal aspects of these issues are acknowledged as requiring further attention and study.