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NHSE policy on masculinising and feminising hormones

10 March 2026

Proposing MP
Wes Streeting Lab
Ilford North
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department of Health and Social Care
View on Parliament.uk -->

At a Glance

Issue Summary

NHS England is consulting on a new clinical commissioning policy regarding the prescribing of masculinising or feminising hormones for children and adolescents with gender incongruence or dysphoria.

Action Requested

NHS England is consulting for 90 days on a proposal to no longer provide MAF hormones as a routine option through the NHS CYP Gender Service, pausing existing clinical policy until a final decision is made. Existing prescriptions for MAF hormones for 16 and 17-year-olds will be reviewed and managed under enhanced informed consent processes.

Key Facts

  • MAF hormones are currently only available to children and young people aged 16 and 17 in very limited circumstances.
  • The consultation period is 90 days.
  • The Cass Review and NICE evidence review found very limited evidence supporting the safety and effectiveness of MAF hormones for under-18s.
  • NHS England is pausing existing clinical policy with immediate effect.
  • Psychological and psychosocial support remains available for patients in the CYP Gender Service.
  • GPs are advised not to agree shared care arrangements with unregulated providers offering MAF hormones to under-18s.
  • NHS England will reissue guidance in May 2025 advising against shared care arrangements with unregulated providers.
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