NHS England has announced the cessation of routine prescriptions for puberty blockers to children at gender identity clinics due to concerns over the safety and effectiveness of these treatments. This decision, effective immediately, follows an interim review by Dr. Hilary Cass, which highlighted the lack of sufficient evidence supporting the use of such medications in children experiencing gender dysphoria.

Puberty blockers are drugs used to delay the physical changes associated with puberty, allowing children questioning their gender identity more time to explore their feelings without the added stress of changing bodies. Up until now, these treatments were available to a small number of children within the NHS system, specifically fewer than 100 across England. These individuals will be permitted to continue their treatment despite the new policy.

The review by Dr. Cass, which prompted this decision, underscored significant gaps in the existing evidence on the long-term outcomes and safety of puberty blockers. As a result, the NHS plans to limit the use of these drugs to the context of clinical trials or under exceptional circumstances where individual clinicians can request funding for their patients on a case-by-case basis. This move aligns with NHS England’s goal to ground care for children experiencing gender dysphoria in robust evidence and expert clinical guidance, prioritizing the safety and well-being of these young individuals.

Responding to the decision, Health Minister Maria Caulfield expressed support, highlighting the importance of basing health care decisions on solid evidence. In line with this policy shift, the Gender Identity Development Service is set to be replaced by new regional services stationed in London and Liverpool starting April, with more specialist centers planned to open in the next two years. An NHS England study focusing on the utility and impact of puberty blockers is slated to commence by December 2024, aiming to fill the current evidence gaps.

The decision has stirred a range of responses from organizations and experts involved in the public consultation, reflecting the diverse views on the treatment of gender dysphoria in young people. Some groups, like Sex Matters, have commended the move towards evidence-based policy, while others, including Stonewall, express concerns over potential delays in accessing necessary care. This policy adjustment marks a significant departure in the approach to providing care for youth with gender identity issues within the UK’s health service.