A person holds up a sign reading ‘you are loved’. (Getty) Trans physician Navin Kariyawasam has provided a compelling explanation for why trans youth must have the autonomy to access gender-affirming healthcare in the face of legislative bans and restrictions. In the United States, 26 states have banned such care since 2022, and nearly 40% of the estimated 300,000 trans youth aged 13-17 live in these restrictive states. Anti-trans bills have a detrimental impact on the mental health of trans and non-binary youth, with one in six suffering from depression and anxiety related to transphobia.

Why Access to Healthcare is Life-Saving for Trans Youth

In her article published by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Navin Kariyawasam emphasized that access to healthcare and support is not only statistically beneficial but can be life-saving. She shared that in her work, having conversations with young people about their gender leads to fruitful discussions about their concerns and curiosities. Medical care, she explained, is about creating space for complex conversations that allow young people and their families to embark on a path of self-discovery together.

The Capacity for Gender Experimentation

The University of Toronto MD added that young people should have the right to make decisions about their bodies without political interference. From a young age, Navin Kariyawasam herself had the capacity to experiment with gender roles, which led her to have more complex thoughts about her gender identity. As she navigated this complex development, she lacked adults in her life to turn to for guidance and support. This is why, as a trans person and a physician, she understands the importance of young people and their families being able to communicate with trusted healthcare providers about the uncertainties they face.

Countering Conspiracy Theories

Navin Kariyawasam also addressed the conspiracy theory that gender-affirming care is used to force under-18s to identify as trans. She emphasized that no one makes the decision to seek gender-affirming care casually. Young people, their families, and their providers carefully consider this decision. She firmly stated that governments should not be allowed to make decisions about our bodies, and the proliferation of gender-affirming care bans is not only deeply transphobic but also sets a dangerous precedent.Trans youth deserve the autonomy to make decisions about their own healthcare. These bans and restrictions not only deny them the support they need but also have a negative impact on their mental health. We must recognize the importance of allowing trans youth to have a voice and the right to access the care they require. Let us work together to ensure that every trans youth feels loved and supported.