Promoting Gender-Affirming Care: Challenging Conflation and Embracing Complexity

Abstract

Anti-LGBTQ legislation and policies that restrict access to gender-affirming care for gender-diverse youth have been on the rise. These policies, particularly policies that restrict gender-affirming care for trans and gender-diverse youth, are often based on a narrow interpretation of data and oversimplification of the concepts of sex and gender. Quantitative and qualitative public health data show that queer and gender-diverse youth face significant mental health risks, so they need care and treatment options that address their distinct needs. Recognizing the complexities of sex and gender, inclusive policies should support gender-affirming care for gender-diverse youth. Restrictive legislation and policies based on oversimplified understandings of sex and gender perpetuate discrimination and harm. Policy recommendations include ensuring access to gender-affirming care, providing comprehensive LGBTQ-inclusive education and training for healthcare providers, and ensuring protection against discrimination.