Major Medical Organizations Reassess Support for Gender-Affirming Care for Trans Youth

The American Medical Association (AMA) and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) have recently modified their positions regarding gender-affirming care for transgender and non-binary youth. On February 4, 2026, the AMA recommended that gender-affirming surgeries for minors be postponed until adulthood, citing a lack of sufficient research on the benefits of such procedures. This recommendation follows a similar stance taken by the ASPS, which also expressed concerns about the existing literature on gender-affirming surgeries.

Major medical orgs partially U-turn on trans surgeries

These announcements are viewed by many advocates as a setback for LGBTQ+ rights in the United States and internationally. Historically, the AMA and other medical institutions have been cited by activists as evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of gender-affirming surgeries. Although surgeries like phalloplasties, hysterectomies, and vaginoplasties are rarely performed on individuals under 18, some teenagers aged 16 and older may undergo procedures such as facial feminization surgery (FFS) or mastectomies, albeit infrequently. Research indicates that appropriate healthcare for transgender youth significantly enhances their quality of life and can reduce rates of suicidality.

Major medical orgs partially U-turn on trans surgeries

Despite the changes regarding surgical interventions, the AMA has clarified that it continues to endorse the use of puberty blockers for transgender youth. A spokesperson for the AMA stated that there is no intention to retract support for these treatments, which are considered crucial for many young individuals navigating gender dysphoria.

Major medical orgs partially U-turn on trans surgeries

The reassessment of gender-affirming care recommendations occurs within a broader context of political and legal challenges facing transgender rights in the U.S. The Trump administration has intensified efforts to restrict gender-affirming care, particularly in states where such care remains legal. This escalation followed a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that upheld Tennessee's ban on gender-affirming care for minors, establishing a legal precedent that could affect future legislation. According to the Human Rights Campaign, nearly 25% of transgender youth in the U.S. reside in states that have enacted some form of ban on gender-affirming care.

Major medical orgs partially U-turn on trans surgeries

Critics of the AMA and ASPS's new recommendations argue that these changes could exacerbate mental health issues among transgender youth. They contend that delaying access to gender-affirming surgeries may lead to increased distress and a higher risk of suicidality. Additionally, organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) have maintained their previous recommendations, which do not include blanket restrictions on surgeries for minors.

Major medical orgs partially U-turn on trans surgeries

• “surgical interventions in minors should be generally deferred to adulthood” — American Medical Association

Major medical orgs partially U-turn on trans surgeries

• “A day prior, the ASPS took a similar position, claiming that there was insufficient research on the benefits of gender-affirming surgeries, according to a literature review published alongside its statement.” — American Society of Plastic Surgeons

Major medical orgs partially U-turn on trans surgeries

The evolving landscape of medical recommendations regarding gender-affirming care reflects ongoing debates about the rights and healthcare needs of transgender youth in the United States.

Major medical orgs partially U-turn on trans surgeries