Research Shows Gender-Reassignment Treatments Have No Mental Health Benefits, National Pediatricians Group Says

American College of Pediatricians issues its position after reviewing more than 60 studies on mental health in adolescents with gender dysphoria.

Protesters opposing medical transgender procedures for youths gather at the American Academy of Pediatrics convention in Anaheim, Calif., on Oct. 7, 2022. Courtesy of TreVoices.Org/Scott Newgent

A review of more than 60 studies has concluded that “there is no long-term evidence that mental health concerns are decreased or alleviated after ‘gender-affirming therapy,’” according to a national group of physicians.

The American College of Pediatricians (ACPeds) on Wednesday issued its position statement opposing the use of so-called “gender-affirming” medications, such as puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones, social transition, and surgery for youth who have a gender identity not congruent with their sex.