A video that went viral in early 2024 showing an 11-year-old child receiving puberty blocker injections has reignited fierce debate over medical interventions for transgender youth.
The footage, which circulated widely on social media, shows a child identified by the pseudonym “Josie” (born Joseph) receiving an implant injection while crying out in pain as the mother holds the child steady during the procedure.
Dr. Olson-Kennedy, Medical Director of The Center for Transyouth Health and Development at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, can be seen telling the child: “You are in the perfect place to start on [puberty] blockers.”
Mother’s Controversial Statement
In the video, the mother made a statement that drew particular criticism: “A lot of time it strikes me that, had this happened 20 years ago, I wouldn’t have been able to give her blockers and she would’ve had to go through male puberty. That terrifies me. I don’t know that she would have survived male puberty.”
The doctor reportedly promised to get the child on estrogen shots within two years when they turn 13.
Intense Online Reaction
The video, originally shared by conservative commentator Oli London in February 2024, generated millions of views and sparked polarized reactions across social media platforms.
Critics described the scene as “child abuse” and questioned whether medical professionals should face legal consequences for providing such treatments to minors.
Supporters argued the treatment represents necessary medical care for transgender youth experiencing severe distress about puberty.
Medical Context
Puberty blockers are medications that temporarily pause the physical changes of puberty by suppressing sex hormones. They’ve been used for decades to treat precocious puberty (early-onset puberty) in children.
The medications are typically delivered via injection every few months or through implants placed under the skin that need periodic replacement.
When puberty blockers are stopped, the body resumes its natural puberty process, though
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