Casey Costello believes slashing inclusive language will help the health system connect with women.

The Associate Health Minister is directing Health NZ to refer to pregnant people as women, and to not use gender-diverse terms.

Costello says we need to recognise women have significant health issues.

"So we need to be clear - we are targeting women and we want women to reach out and connect as much as possible with health services."

LISTEN ABOVE

• Govt directs Health NZ to stop saying ‘pregnant people’