Hon. Maryka Groenewald asks about bone density monitoring protocols for children on puberty blockers in WA. The Minister for Health confirms baseline assessments and ongoing monitoring are in place.

AnsweredQoN 186Legislative Council
Asked
17 March 2026
Portfolio
Health

QuestionView source ↗

Bone density monitoring
186. Hon Maryka Groenewald to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister
for Health:
I refer to evidence
from international studies, including a 2025 systematic review published in the Archives of Disease in Childhood , which
suggest reduced bone mineral density in teenagers using puberty blockers.
(1) What bone density monitoring
protocols are in place for children receiving puberty blockers in Western
Australia?
(2) If none exist, will the government
commit to implementing bone density monitoring protocols in minors being given
puberty blockers?
(3) If no to
(2), why not?

AnswerView source ↗

I thank the
honourable member for some notice of the question. The following answer has
been provided by the Minister for Health.
(1) A baseline bone health assessment is
conducted prior to commencement of puberty blockers through the Gender
Diversity Service. During treatment, bone density is monitored through regular
scans, with guidance to support bone health.
(2)–(3) Not applicable.

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