The Ministry of Health is reviewing the use of puberty blockers in gender-affirming care, with feedback due by 5:00 pm on Monday, 20 January 2025. This marks a shift towards a more cautious approach, following the release of an evidence brief and position statement in November 2024. The Ministry now advises doctors to exercise caution, citing a lack of strong evidence on the long-term safety and effectiveness of these medications.
NZDSOS believes that treatments with irreversible lifelong consequences should be treated with the the utmost caution. The risks to bone density, brain development, sexual response, and fertility demand transparency and independent, robust research to ensure these interventions are appropriate for young people.
New Zealand’s review aligns with international trends, such as the UK’s move to restrict puberty blockers outside clinical trials. While some argue tighter controls might harm transgender youth by limiting access to care, others insist that safety (First, do no harm!) and evidence must come first to protect vulnerable young people.
Your voice is crucial in shaping these future health guidelines. NZDSOS strongly advocates for evidence-based practices, rigorous research, and full accountability to ensure children’s well-being and informed consent are at the forefront of care. Your feedback can be provided through the Health Consultation Hub on the Ministry of Health’s website. Make your voice heard before the deadline on Monday, 20 January, at 5:00 pm!
Related links
Ministry of Health’s Position Statement on Puberty Blockers Protecting the Innocence of Our Children – NZDSOS Hands Off Our Children – NZDSOS Gender Identity Politics: Another Brazen Attack? – NZDSOS Puberty Blockers – A Hot Topic Worldwide – Penny Marie (Substack)
This article was originally published by New Zealand Doctors Speaking Out With Science.
