Treating gender dysphoria in minors and young adults

Gender dysphoria in minors and young adults is an increasingly discussed issue. This subject, which is often poorly understood by the general population but also by many health professionals, tends to divide people. Its treatments, in particular, are the source of opposing views. The law against conversion therapies that passed in Belgium in 2023 has made it even more complex to treat these young people. Gender dysphoria can cause significant psychological distress, and physicians have a duty and should be given the opportunity to diagnose the condition and propose treatment to help patients recover their health. Physicians’ clinical judgment and freedom to exercise their medical function should not be subject to interference based on ideas or beliefs that go against the patients’ well-being Keywords Gender dysphoria, evidence-based medicine, children and adolescents