NHS poised to stop prescribing cross-sex hormones to trans-identifying children under the age of 18

NHS preparing to halt cross-sex hormone prescriptions for trans-identifying children under 18

The NHS is set to suspend the use of cross-sex hormones for trans-identifying minors aged 16 to 17, as revealed by the Mail on Sunday. This potential shift could take effect by the end of the week, signaling a major change in transgender care protocols.

Medical professionals reportedly back the decision to pause hormone therapy for new patients, though a short consultation period is expected. The move represents a pivotal moment in the evolving discourse on transgender health policies.

Internal review highlights potential risks

A recent NHS internal document, shared with the Mail on Sunday, notes that oestrogen and testosterone injections may contribute to blood clots, breast cancer, heart disease, stroke, and diminished sexual function. It also raises concerns about the unknown long-term effects of these hormones on adolescent brain development.

According to the report, the evidence supporting their use in young people is described as ‘insufficient’ to warrant continued administration. The prohibition on cross-sex hormones for under-18s would mark a key development in the trans rights debate.

“This has been a long time coming given the evidence of the harms these hormones cause,” said Dr. Alice Hodkinson, a GP from Biology in Medicine.

Male patients receiving oestrogen often report smoother skin, increased hair thickness, and facial softening, alongside changes in body fat distribution. Female patients on testosterone may develop facial hair, deeper voices, and experience male-pattern baldness in some cases.

Prolonged hormone use can result in irreversible physical alterations, particularly for females and young women. Testosterone may lead to incontinence and vaginal atrophy, characterized by vaginal wall thinning that causes bleeding and discomfort. Additional effects include dyslipidaemia, polycythaemia, hypercalcaemia, and increased liver enzymes.

A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care stated: ‘We refrain from commenting on leaked information. The safety and well-being of children and adolescents are our top priorities, and NHS England bases its clinical decisions on expert recommendations.’