American Academy of Pediatrics to Conduct Review of 'Gender Affirming Care'

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to Review Gender-Affirming Care for Children with Gender Dysphoria

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has decided to conduct a review of "gender-affirming care" for children with gender dysphoria. This move comes in response to longstanding calls from critics for such a review. The AAP, which is the leading professional association for pediatricians in the United States, plans to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the available evidence on transgender medical interventions for children.

AAP Authorizes Development of Expanded Guidance for Pediatricians

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has authorized the development of an "expanded set of guidance" for pediatricians regarding interventions for transgender youth. These interventions can include puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, double mastectomies, and genital surgeries for older youth. The AAP's decision is based on a systematic review of the evidence.

AAP Expresses Confidence in Current Guidelines

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has expressed confidence in their current guidelines for transgender and gender-diverse children, despite calls for a systematic review. The AAP stated that they oppose any laws or regulations that discriminate against transgender individuals and interfere with the doctor-patient relationship. They also expressed concerns about restrictions to access to healthcare due to bans on gender-affirming care in more than 20 states.

AAP Releases Guidelines for Medical Interventions

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has released guidelines for medical interventions for pediatric transgender individuals. These guidelines recommend "social affirmation" for children who identify as a different gender, puberty blockers during puberty, cross-sex hormones starting from early adolescence, and "top" and "bottom" surgeries, typically for adults but also for adolescents on a case-by-case basis.

Health Risks Associated with Puberty Blockers and Cross-Sex Hormones

The content provided highlights the serious health risks associated with both puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones. Puberty blockers can impact bone growth and density, as well as lead to sexual dysfunction, voice damage, and infertility. On the other hand, cross-sex hormones can result in infertility, life-threatening blood clots, heart attacks, increased risks of breast and ovarian cancer, liver dysfunction, worsening of psychological illness, and other severe conditions.

Rise in Elective Double Mastectomies among Teenage Girls

The number of teenage girls in the U.S. opting for elective double mastectomies to remove their healthy breasts has been on the rise, with some girls as young as 12 undergoing the procedure. This trend coincides with a growing popularity of youth adopting new gender identities. Last year, an estimated 300,000 minors between the ages of 13 and 17 identified as transgender.

AAP Updating Policy on Transgender Medical Interventions

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is updating its policy on transgender medical interventions based on new data and research. The AAP regularly reviews evidence and policies and will seek input from other stakeholders for the new policy. Advocates who are against rushing children into transgender medical interventions have welcomed the decision to review the policy.

Call for More Research on Puberty Blockers

The article discusses the lack of long-term evidence supporting the widespread use of puberty blockers and questions the recent trend towards "gender-affirmative care." The author, Stella O'Malley, a psychotherapist, highlights the recent decision by the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) to acknowledge the lack of evidence in this area. The article suggests that more research is needed to understand the potential effects of puberty blockers on children in the long term.

Advocacy for Least Invasive Approach

O'Malley, the director of Genspect, is urging doctors to prioritize the least invasive approach for addressing gender distress. Genspect, a U.K.-based group, advocates for this approach. Last year, Genspect wrote an open letter to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), requesting an update to their gender care policy. The letter received support from doctors, psychologists, and even a former fellow of the AAP.