Position Statement on the Use of Puberty Blockers in Gender-Affirming Care

Purpose

This position statement accompanies the release of an evidence brief which examines the safety and long-term impacts of puberty blockers when used in the context of gender-affirming care.

• View the Impact of Puberty Blockers in Gender-Dysphoric Adolescents: An evidence brief.

This statement summarises the brief’s findings and sets out the Ministry of Health’s expectations for their use.

In addition, it outlines our next steps that will ensure young people with gender incongruence and gender dysphoria have access to quality care. It also provides relevant information for health professionals, rainbow communities, and the general public.

Background

In September 2022, the Ministry of Health updated its position on the safety and reversibility of puberty blockers when used for gender-affirming care. This was in light of work underway in other jurisdictions examining the clinical effects of puberty blockers on adolescents. The evidence brief examines the risks and benefits of puberty blockers when used for gender-affirming care.