How Effective Is Castration As A Cure For Pedophilia?

Like the title says. Thank you for your time.

Chemical castration can be very effective at taking the edge off one's sexual urges. Side effects are, of course, possible. It is not a 'cure' for paedophilia. It will not change one's sexuality.

Chemical castration is only temporary, correct?

The intended effects (reduction of libido) are temporary, but do note that any side effects experienced may be less temporary or even permanent. I would discuss this with a medical professional if it's something you or someone you know may be considering.

What about physical castration?

I can't comment on it's comparative efficacy as I'm not knowledgeable in this area, but the effects should be broadly the same. The effects will, of course, be permanent. Note also that physical castration has potential side effects (e.g. loss of bone density). If these become pronounced, treatment with hormones may become necessary. As with my advice on chemical castration, I recommend speaking to a competent specialist.

I take it you're considering doing this voluntarily? I don't know you or your situation, but I'd advise against it. There's no cure for a sexual attraction, pumping yourself full of antiandrogens will only help if you really feel like you can't control yourself in day-to-day situations around kids. I have no idea if it's effective in preventing abuse, but given that you're even considering taking such a step I'd say you're better off talking with a therapist if anything - you'd probably need to anyway if you wanted a steady supply of depo provera or whatever, unless you get some black market transsexual drugs or something.

Ultimately though, sexual attraction is located in the brain and isn't just an artifact of testosterone. Just because you're not able to get a boner looking at someone doesn't mean you lose all the trappings of finding them attractive. So yeah, it's not gonna 'cure' a pedophile.

Borgesius wrote:I take it you're considering doing this voluntarily?

Yes, I am.

Borgesius wrote: There's no cure for a sexual attraction, pumping yourself full of antiandrogens will only help if you really feel like you can't control yourself in day-to-day situations around kids.

I honestly believe it would help. I don't think I can be trusted.

Borgesius wrote:
Ultimately though, sexual attraction is located in the brain and isn't just an artifact of testosterone. Just because you're not able to get a boner looking at someone doesn't mean you lose all the trappings of finding them attractive. So yeah, it's not gonna 'cure' a pedophile.

I realize all of this. But I am hoping castration will at least lower my thoughts about children.