The Ministry of Health has released an evidence brief and position statement signalling a more cautious approach to the use of puberty blockers for adolescents experiencing “gender identity issues”.
The move comes amid growing international and domestic concerns about the safety and long-term effects of the treatments.
The evidence brief highlights a lack of robust data supporting the efficacy and safety of puberty blockers. In response, the Ministry has outlined expectations for a precautionary approach, emphasising “holistic care” and comprehensive assessments of young people’s needs, including social and mental health considerations.
The Ministry’s position statement calls for stricter controls on prescribing puberty blockers.
Under the new guidelines, such treatments should only be initiated by clinicians experienced in gender-affirming care and working within interprofessional teams that provide a range of support services.
Additionally, the Government has tasked the Ministry with exploring further safeguards, including potential regulations under the Medicines Act 1981. Public consultation on these proposed measures will be open until late January 2025, with the Ministry inviting input from organisations and individuals through its Health Consultation Hub.
“The appropriate and safe care for this group of young people is critically important,” the Ministry stated, adding that any additional safeguards would aim to protect vulnerable individuals from potential harm.
The announcement comes against the backdrop of fluctuating trends in the use of puberty blockers in New Zealand.
In 2010, approximately 25 young people between the ages of 11 and 17 began treatment with these medications. By 2021, this number had surged to around 140 before declining to 113 in 2023. The pattern reflects broader international trends, prompting increased scrutiny and calls for evidence-based guidelines.
To address ongoing uncertainties, the Ministry will commission research into the long-term clinical and mental health impacts of puberty blockers. Health NZ is also preparing updated clinical guidelines, expected in the coming months, while efforts are underway to improve monitoring and develop locally relevant knowledge.
New Zealand First leader Winston Peters welcomed the announcement, viewing it as a step toward greater accountability and safety in prescribing the controversial treatments.
“The lack of any evidence about the safety and long-term effects of puberty blockers on children has been gathering momentum around the world,” Peters said.
He highlighted his party’s consistent stance on the issue during the recent election campaign, noting that the Ministry’s new measures align with New Zealand First’s calls for stricter controls. Peters pledged to remain an advocate for further restrictions once the consultation process concludes.
“Our party will continue to be the voice of reason and commonsense when the next steps are taken,” he added.
The Ministry of Health has announced new rules that restrict the prescribing and use of puberty blockers.
Those new restrictions come into effect immediately.
The lack of any evidence about the safety and long term effects of puberty blockers on children has been gathering…
— Winston Peters (@winstonpeters) November 20, 2024
Image credit: Fredrik Solli Wandem
Well that is good, one step to overturn the anti-life woke ideology.
Note that “Under the new guidelines, such treatments should only be initiated by clinicians experienced in gender-affirming care”
So these clinicians are probably woke and not to be trusted.
This should never have been a thing that needed to be undone
Half of Labour and greens are on it
They are slowly trying to back out of the damage they have caused to teens with mental health issues, not before they have utterly ruined the lives of some people. Disgusting this was ever a thing. If my child had taken these drugs, I would be personally finding out all those responsible. Doesn’t help when you have mental ill people “counselling” these young kids.
NOT GOOD ENOUGH.
Ban/outlaw them unequivocally, and throw anyone peddling the ideology into prison where they belong.