Last year was a difficult time for transgender health care, with many U.S. states placing restrictions on gender-affirming care. Treatments like hormone replacement therapy and puberty blockers faced bans or restrictions, limiting access for many transgender minors. But what does the evidence say about gender-affirming care, and what could the repercussions be for transgender individuals?
The Impact of Gender-Affirming Care for Mental Health
Gender-affirming care refers to medical, psychological and other health services that support and affirm an individual’s gender identity when it does not align with the gender they were assigned at birth. It’s common for transgender people to report feeling distress from gender dysphoria that can lead to depression and even suicide.
A study published by the American Economic Association assessed two groups of transgender youths and found similar patterns of suicide attempts in the years before hormone replacement therapy, or HRT. However, after starting HRT, the study concluded that initiating the treatment contributed to a 14.4% reduction in suicide attempts.
These findings correspond to studies into the impact of undergoing gender-affirming hormone therapy on mental health. Researchers found that transgender youth were more likely to report feeling positive emotions and a sense of life satisfaction after using HRT, with a resulting reduction in anxiety and depression.
Accessing Hormone Replacement Therapy From a Trusted Healthcare Provider
Whether for counseling, hormone replacement therapy, or to access youth programs, the ability to find an LGBTQ+-friendly healthcare home in Orange County is critical for the well-being of transgender people. Faced with healthcare disparities experienced by many transgender people, accessing treatment from knowledgeable medical providers has proven difficult for many patients.
However, with the steps that have been made towards obtaining FDA approval for HRT for gender-affirming care, a positive development may be on the horizon. While “off-label” HRT treatments are available, securing FDA approval could make it easier to get treatment in states with restrictions.
Why Accessing Hormone Replacement Therapy Matters for Transgender Youth
Restricting access to HRT and gender-affirming care could have severe consequences for those experiencing gender dysphoria, anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges. With hormone replacement therapy leading to positive mental health outcomes and a reduction in suicide attempts, reducing barriers to affirming healthcare is necessary to prevent disparities and ensure young people can get the quality services they need.
At Radiant Health Centers, our medical clinic provides services for the LGBTQ+ community in Orange County. We are committed to delivering the best quality healthcare, including the essential HRT treatments and counseling services that help patients align with their gender identity with confidence and support.
Hormone Replacement Therapy Services in Orange County
Radiant Health Centers provides hormone replacement therapy for patients in Orange County. If you’d like to discuss HRT, counseling and care programs, or any of our other services, contact our Irvine medical clinic today. Call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.
Image Credit – megaflopp/Shutterstock.com
