HHS Issues Report Criticizing Gender-Affirming Care for Minors

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released a comprehensive report challenging the scientific basis and safety of medical interventions for minors with gender dysphoria, such as puberty blockers, hormones, and surgeries. The report concludes that evidence supporting the benefits of these treatments is weak and uncertain, while potential risks—including infertility and other significant harms—are more established. HHS recommends prioritizing psychotherapy as a lower-risk alternative and criticizes major U.S. medical organizations for promoting medical transition despite what it calls insufficient scientific backing and suppressed dissent within their ranks. The report has been condemned by LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and medical associations like the American Academy of Pediatrics, who argue it ignores established healthcare best practices and stigmatizes transgender youth. Critics also accuse HHS of rebranding conversion therapy as 'exploratory therapy,' a claim the report disputes. The debate highlights a sharp divide between the HHS's new recommendations and the consensus of major medical organizations supporting gender-affirming care for minors.