Last Updated on September 22, 2023 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
Posts on social media are saturated with claims that prescribed puberty blockers impact fertility of the transgender youth. Based on our comprehensive research, it has been determined that these claims are Mostly False.
The Claim
Puberty blockers have been a topic of discussion on social media. There are some claims suggesting that they may lead to permanent and irreversible side effects, including infertility.
Fact Check
What exactly are ‘puberty blockers’?
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues known as ‘puberty blockers‘ temporarily interfere with the release of the hormones necessary for the development of secondary sexual characteristics. The gonad hormones that govern the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are under the control of this naturally occurring hormone. This regulation plays an essential role in maintaining the balance of testosterone and oestrogen levels in the body. This approach aids in postponing or repressing the onset of puberty. This gives transgender people more time to investigate their gender identity.
Please remember that puberty blockers are a subject of ongoing research and debate. They work by delaying or suppressing puberty through the regulation of hormone release. However, their impact on the mental health and overall well-being of transgender youth is a topic that requires further investigation and consideration.
Are puberty blockers capable of inducing infertility among transgender youth?
No, not for now. Puberty blockers, usually prescribed to address precocious puberty, can also be advised for transgender youth under parental guidance. These prescribed medications delay the onset of puberty by inhibiting the hormones testosterone and oestrogen. These are responsible for driving secondary physical changes during this period. It should be stressed that these medications are typically prescribed to individuals who have reached puberty but have not yet experienced irreversible changes, such as voice deepening or breast development.
It is important to clarify that puberty blockers do not permanently suspend puberty-related changes in a growing child’s body. Rather, they offer a temporary solution that halts the process for as long as the medication is being used. Once discontinued, puberty resumes its natural course. Hence, these prescribed medications act as a pause button, and stopping their use allows puberty to restart.
Please understand that these puberty blockers are generally not recommended for children who are comfortable with natural puberty changes or for those who have completed puberty. Additionally, they are not typically prescribed for children who have yet to exhibit signs of puberty.
Puberty blockers have the potential to cause certain side effects. These primarily include crying, irritability, restlessness, injection site reactions or pain, acne, rashes, headaches, and weight gain. These might vary depending on the specific medication used. Concerns also exist regarding their long-term impact on bone health and overall well-being. Consulting with a healthcare provider is highly recommended. This would help to weigh the risks and benefits of using puberty blockers before making a decision.
Dr. Nikita Chauhan, Gynaecologist & obstetrician, explains that, “Puberty blockers, specifically gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues, are commonly prescribed to transgender and gender-diverse youth to delay the onset of puberty. These blockers provide an important opportunity for young individuals to explore their gender identity without undergoing irreversible physical changes. It is important to note that these blockers do not cause infertility. However, there could be potential long-term effects. Despite this, these medications are considered a reversible and generally safe option for transgender and gender-diverse youth seeking gender-affirming care.”
Nevertheless, limited research exists on the impact of puberty blockers on the fertility of transgender youth. While they temporarily pause the development of secondary sexual characteristics, the effects of this pause on fertility may vary among individuals. Therefore, it is important for individuals and their families to consult healthcare professionals and discuss potential long-term implications before considering the use of puberty blockers. Consequently, further research and medical guidance may be necessary to gain a comprehensive understanding of the effects of puberty blockers on fertility.
What is the life-saving purpose of puberty blockers?
The CDC reports that transgender adolescents have a dramatically increased risk of suicide, underlining the significance of readily available treatments like puberty blockers. GnRH analogues and other puberty blockers offer vital respite from the discomfort brought on by the discrepancy between one’s gender identification and the assigned sex at birth. In addition to relieving mental anguish, this pause in puberty gives adolescents the chance to explore their gender identity with the help of their families and medical specialists.
It is important to consider the possible adverse effects of these puberty blocker therapies, such as injection site swelling or mood swings. Additionally, research has raised questions regarding whether puberty inhibitors may help transgender teenagers with gender dysphoria. However, these concerns pale in comparison to the advantages of these treatments, which include reducing gender dysphoria and averting suicide. To enable young people and their families to make wise decisions about their transition journey, it is crucial that these treatments are carried out under the guidance of a specialist.
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