Puberty Blockers: What You Need to Know

If you're a parent of a transgender or non-binary child, you may have heard of puberty blockers. These medications can be a lifesaver for these kids, helping them to delay the onset of puberty and buy them some time to figure out who they are without having to deal with the physical changes that can be so distressing.

Puberty blockers are not new. They've been used for decades to treat precocious puberty, a condition in which children start puberty too early. In recent years, they've also been increasingly used to help transgender and non-binary youth who are experiencing gender dysphoria, the distress that can come from feeling like your body doesn't match your gender identity.

Puberty blockers work by blocking the production of sex hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone. This can help to delay the development of secondary sex characteristics, such as breasts, facial hair, and a deepening voice. Puberty blockers can also help to reduce the distress that transgender and non-binary youth may feel about their bodies.

Puberty blockers are not a cure for gender dysphoria, but they can be a helpful tool for transgender and non-binary youth who are exploring their gender identity. They can provide these kids with some time to figure out who they are without having to deal with the physical changes that can be so distressing.

If you're considering puberty blockers for your child, it's important to talk to your doctor. Puberty blockers are a powerful medication, and they should only be used under the supervision of a doctor.

• Puberty blockers are not a cure for gender dysphoria, but they can be a helpful tool for transgender and non-binary youth who are exploring their gender identity.
• Puberty blockers are not a permanent solution. Once your child stops taking puberty blockers, their body will start to develop according to their biological sex.
• Puberty blockers can have side effects, such as hot flashes, mood swings, and weight gain. It's important to talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of puberty blockers before starting treatment.

Puberty blockers can be a life-changing treatment for transgender and non-binary youth. If you're considering puberty blockers for your child, it's important to talk to your doctor to learn more about the risks and benefits.