The 18-year-old girl’s case has been widely reported as evidence of a larger system that discriminates against transgender-identifying people.
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In May, a New Zealand newspaper reported an 18-year-old female was admitted to the emergency room after attempting to remove her own breasts due to anxiety over an upcoming pool party. Despite New Zealand having universal health care, which covers “gender-affirming” medical options, this case has been widely reported as evidence of a larger system that discriminates against transgender-identifying people.
LGBTQ Nation, for example, argues, “The lack of gender-affirming care drove [her] to this desperate act.” Another New Zealand site declared, “Call for better access to gender-affirming surgery after Kiwi teen attempts to remove own breasts at home.” The teenager was already taking testosterone and was on a waiting list for an elective double mastectomy, covered by the country’s health care system.
