What did Dr. Hilary Cass's review find about puberty blockers?

Dr. Cass's review found a lack of research and weak evidence regarding the safety and effectiveness of puberty blockers and other medical interventions in gender care.

What changes are planned for gender services in Northern Ireland?

A new 'Lifespan Gender Identity Service' is planned to integrate adult and youth services, aiming for a smoother transition pathway for individuals aged 17-25 and a standardized clinical pathway from assessment to treatment.

Home / Health / NI to Trial Puberty Blockers in Gender Questioning Youth

NI to Trial Puberty Blockers in Gender Questioning Youth

Q: Will Northern Ireland participate in a trial for puberty-blocking drugs?

Yes, Northern Ireland is set to become a research site for a clinical trial assessing puberty-blocking drugs in children questioning their gender identity.

11 Feb

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Summary

Northern Ireland will participate in a clinical trial for puberty-blocking drugs.
A review by Dr. Hilary Cass found weak evidence for puberty blockers' safety.
New 'Lifespan Gender Identity Service' aims to integrate adult and youth care.

NI to Trial Puberty Blockers in Gender Questioning Youth

Northern Ireland will become a research site for a clinical trial assessing puberty-blocking drugs in children questioning their gender identity. This decision follows a review of the region's gender identity services conducted by Dr. Hilary Cass. Dr. Cass's review, which examined services for young people, previously found a lack of research and weak evidence regarding the safety and effectiveness of medical interventions in gender care.

The upcoming trial, involving around 220 children under 16, will investigate the effects of puberty blockers on their physical, social, and emotional well-being. While engagement with the trial researchers is deemed urgent, Dr. Cass stressed the necessity of significant staff training and infrastructure changes for Northern Ireland's participation.