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Gender-Affirming Health Care for Trans Children

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Outright Team

Publish Date

January 28, 2026

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Gender-affirming care policy brief cover Read the Full Publication

Misinformation about gender-affirming health care has fueled harmful legislation worldwide. But the facts are clear: this is safe, evidence-based medicine that has improved—and saved—countless lives for decades. As governments continue to restrict access, especially for young people, it's more important than ever to understand what gender-affirming care actually is, who it helps, and why medical professionals support it.

Key Points:

  • Gender-affirming health care has a longstanding history. Trans people and others have safely accessed this health care, including hormone therapy and surgery, for decades to align their bodies with their identity.
  • Puberty blockers help some youth. A small number of people seeking gender-affirming care include children who benefit from medications that postpone the development of secondary sex characteristics—the same drugs used for over 40 years to treat early puberty.
  • Gender-affirming care saves lives. Gender-affirming care is linked to positive health outcomes and endorsed by the World Health Organization and leading medical associations. For some trans youth, it is vital and may amount to “necessary medical assistance” under international law.
  • Children should have access to gender-affirming care that upholds the highest clinical and ethical standards and is based on their free and informed consent. In accordance with their evolving capacities, children, together with their families and medical professionals, can make informed decisions about their bodies.
  • Bans ignore science. Bans on gender-affirming health care are not based on the best available evidence, which continues to support its provision, including for children. These restrictions mainly seek to police bodies and identities, not to protect children.

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