Sarah Jane Baker, a trans activist and artist currently imprisoned, is reportedly being denied essential hormone therapy, according to the Free Sarah Jane Baker campaign (FSJB). The campaign alleges that healthcare providers in the prison have stopped administering oestrogen, a key component of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for trans women, and are instead proposing to give her testosterone, a move FSJB deems as a “medical detransition.”
Baker’s Struggle for Appropriate Medical Care
Previously, while incarcerated, Baker received oestrogen following her self-castration, with the treatment continuing under the guidance of her GP after her release in 2019. However, following her recent re-imprisonment for a parole violation related to a speech at the London Trans+ Pride event, these hormone treatments have reportedly been halted.
Health Impact and Legal Challenges
The withdrawal of oestrogen has allegedly led to Baker suffering severe menopausal symptoms, with the only offered treatment being testosterone at a level equivalent to that of a person with testes. This situation arises despite Baker’s not guilty verdict in August for the charge that led to her re-imprisonment. Baker is currently held at HMP Isle of Wight, a high-security men’s prison, raising further concerns about her well-being and treatment.
Campaign and Clinic Responses
FSJB has criticized the move to administer testosterone as punitive and transphobic, especially given Baker’s acquittal. Worker’s Liberty reports that the gender identity clinic has indicated that the prison doctor is refusing to prescribe anything other than full-dose testosterone, contrary to the clinic’s advice.
Official Statement on Healthcare Provision
A spokesperson for the private practice providing the prison doctor service has stated that the current treatment for Baker is a temporary measure. They assure that the healthcare team is working to ensure that the benefits of any drugs prescribed outweigh the risks and affirm their commitment to providing appropriate care for trans patients.
This case highlights the complexities and challenges faced by trans individuals in the prison system, particularly regarding access to appropriate healthcare and respect for gender identity. It underscores the need for heightened awareness and advocacy for the rights and well-being of trans prisoners.