Iowa AG criticizes pediatric group for ignoring science on trans youth
- Brenna Bird, Iowa AG, and 20 other state AGs demand the AAP revise its guidelines on transgender youth treatments.
- They argue that puberty blockers may cause irreversible changes and that many children with gender dysphoria may outgrow the condition.
- The ongoing debate reflects a significant divide in opinions on transgender healthcare and its implications for policy across the U.S.
Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird has intensified her calls for the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to revise its guidelines regarding transgender youth treatments. Joined by 20 other state attorneys general, Bird argues that the AAP's current stance on puberty blockers and hormone treatments lacks sufficient scientific backing, claiming these interventions can lead to irreversible changes in children. The letter emphasizes that many children diagnosed with gender dysphoria may outgrow the condition, suggesting that administering such treatments could be considered medical experimentation. This issue has gained traction amid ongoing debates over transgender healthcare, with political figures like former President Trump advocating for restrictions on procedures for minors. The Biden administration has faced criticism for its support of gender-affirming care, which contrasts with the views expressed by Bird and her colleagues. The AAP, on the other hand, has reaffirmed its commitment to gender-affirming care, arguing that restricting access can lead to negative mental health outcomes for transgender youth. The ongoing discourse highlights a significant divide in opinions on how best to approach the healthcare needs of transgender minors, with implications for policy and practice across the United States.