PRESCRIPTION OF PUBERTY BLOCKERS TO INDIVIDUALS EXPERIENCING GENDER DYSPHORIA

NOTICE PAPER NO. 3289

NOTICE OF QUESTION FOR WRITTEN ANSWER

FOR THE SITTING OF PARLIAMENT ON 07 JANUARY 2025 

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Dr Lim Wee Kiak

MP for Sembawang GRC 

Question No. 6352 

To ask the Minister for Health (a) what ethical considerations does the Ministry have regarding the prescription of puberty blockers to individuals who are experiencing gender dysphoria and under the age of 18; (b) what are the known and potential medical risks associated with the use of puberty blockers in minors; and (c) what safeguards are in place to protect minors from undergoing such medical interventions without their full and informed consent, even if guardians or parents have given their consent. 

Answer 

1.                 In other countries, puberty blockers have been used for minors diagnosed with gender dysphoria. There is insufficient evidence to indicate that puberty blockers are safe for children or there is significant clinical benefit to them, especially when most children do not remain gender dysphoric later in life. MOH therefore does not recommend the use of puberty blockers for minors with gender dysphoria.