Pubertetsregulering

Pubertetsregulering, also known as puberty delay or pubertal suppression, refers to medical interventions used to temporarily halt or slow down the progression of puberty. This can be achieved through the administration of medications, typically gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists. These medications work by reducing the production of sex hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone, thereby pausing or reversing the development of secondary sexual characteristics.

The decision to initiate pubertal regulation is usually made in consultation with a medical professional and is often considered for specific circumstances. One common reason is to manage gender dysphoria in adolescents, allowing them more time to explore their gender identity before irreversible physical changes occur. In such cases, the goal is to provide a reversible pause, offering a period of stability and reducing distress.

Another indication for pubertal regulation can be precocious puberty, a condition where puberty begins unusually early. By suppressing puberty, medical professionals can prevent premature development of secondary sexual characteristics, address potential psychosocial challenges, and ensure adequate growth potential before the typical age of puberty. The treatment is generally reversible, meaning that puberty will resume once the medication is stopped, although the timing and progression may vary. Close medical supervision is essential throughout the treatment period to monitor the individual's physical and psychological well-being.