As of September 18, 2023, the ban on gender-affirming care for minors in Iowa is in effect. This means minors in Iowa receiving or wanting to receive gender-affirming care will no longer be able to in the state. While this law is devastating for LGBTQ youth and their families, One Iowa is here as a resource to guide folks through this transition.
If You’re Already Getting Care:
- Using gender-affirming care in Iowa isn’t illegal; only prescribing it is.
- You can still use hormones from out of state or a prescribed implant.
- Talk to your doctor and therapist for referrals to providers outside Iowa.
- These referrals may take time, as many affirming providers will receive similar calls from other families
- Ask your provider for medical records to be shared with new providers.
- Providers in Iowa can still draw labs and coordinate care with out-of-state providers; they cannot prescribe HRT or perform surgeries themselves.
- Providers in Iowa can’t prescribe hormones or perform surgeries but can help coordinate care.
Dealing with Insurance:
- Contact your insurance to understand their new policies.
- Ask if they cover gender-affirming care outside of Iowa.
- Guide on navigating insurance in Iowa
If You Haven’t Started Gender-Affirming Care Yet:
- Minors in Iowa can’t get gender-affirming care.
- Find a doctor in another state for prescriptions.
- Be aware that neighboring states may have long waiting lists. Getting an appointment could take months.
- Tips for Traveling Out-of-State for Gender-Affirming Surgery
Can’t Leave the State?
- If you’re currently taking hormones, talk to your healthcare provider about how to taper off them.
- Follow their guidance; don’t stop medication without consulting them.
- Focus on joyful activities and affirm your gender non-medically (e.g., binders, clothing, makeup, voice therapy, exploring affirming names and pronouns, etc.).
Mental Health Resources:
- Contact Max Mowitz at max@oneiowa.org for mental health referrals across the state.
- One Iowa can connect you to support groups in your area.
- Explore state-wide resources like Iowa Safe Schools and Iowa Trans Mutual Aid Fund, Common Love DSM.
- Mental Health Safety Plan
Coping Strategies:
- Connect with loved ones and create a safety plan.
- Cisgender allies, check in on your Trans, Nonbinary, and Gender Diverse loved ones.