Puberty blockers are medicines that temporarily delay or pause the physical changes associated with puberty, primarily by suppressing the release of sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen.
How Puberty Blockers Work
Puberty blockers, usually gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, work by stopping the body's natural production of sex hormones that trigger puberty. When these medications are taken regularly, they halt changes such as breast development, facial hair growth, voice deepening, and menstruation.
Medical Uses
Puberty blockers were originally used to treat children who experienced precocious puberty (premature onset of puberty). Since the 1990s, they have also been used to help transgender or gender-diverse youth delay the development of secondary sex characteristics, allowing more time to explore gender identity and reducing distress from unwanted bodily changes.
Reversibility and Risks
- If a person stops taking puberty blockers, puberty resumes normally.
- The treatment is considered reversible, as hormones begin being produced again once the medication is discontinued.
- Like all medical treatments, puberty blockers may have risks and side effects. Key clinical considerations include bone health monitoring, fertility counseling, and psychological support.
- Research indicates puberty blockers can improve mental health outcomes in transgender youth when provided with proper support and follow-up care.
Licensing and Regulation
While puberty blockers are licensed for treating precocious puberty and certain cancers, their use for gender dysphoria in adolescents is not universally licensed and remains subject to varying regulations in different countries.
In summary, puberty blockers are medications that can pause the effects of puberty to provide medical benefits for certain children, both with precocious puberty and for those exploring gender identity, with treatment decisions guided carefully by healthcare professionals.
