Transgender youth and their families struggle to find gender-affirming care – even in states where it’s still legal

Misinformation and a shifting legal landscape have left many families with trans children uncertain about what care doctors can still provide.

By: Susan Radzilowski, University of Michigan, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: May 20, 2026

Words: 1,554

Last Updated: 2 months ago

Body Text Preview

By Susan Radzilowski, University of Michigan

Imagine this scenario: In late 2025, a social worker sits down with a transgender teenager and his parents. The family is trying to decide whether, and when, to begin gender-affirming hormone treatment.

No one in the family was questioning this young person’s gender identity. The teen had been living as a boy for years. By all accounts, he was thriving: emotionally, academically and socially.

He felt ready for this next …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.

About

FAQ

Email Us