Legal Loophole Allows UK Children To Access Puberty Blockers Easily
NDTV
Puberty blockers are frequently provided to children who are unsure of their gender to prevent bodily changes like the growth of breasts or facial hair.
The National Health Service in the United Kingdom banned puberty blockers, which pause the physical changes of puberty, last month. Puberty blockers are mostly used by children who wish to change gender. NHS England had found there was "not enough evidence" that they were safe or effective and should only be available as part of research. However, some children may still be able to get the drugs on taxpayers' money despite the ban due to a loophole, as per The Telegraph.
Puberty-suppressing hormones, commonly referred to as puberty blockers, limit the production of hormones that trigger puberty. They are frequently provided to children who are unsure of their gender to prevent bodily changes like the growth of breasts or facial hair.
Dr Hilary Cass's interim review report, which was released in 2022, had earlier concluded that there were "gaps in evidence" about the medications and advocated for a change in the care strategy for children experiencing gender-related distress, as per the BBC. But it isn't anticipated to close a loophole that permits physicians to get special dispensations in order to prescribe the medications under exceptional circumstances
