#Birth control: contraception conversations on social media

Social networks, now including social media platforms, are increasingly important sources of health information for many patients, particularly patients of reproductive age. Observing and understanding conversations about contraception happening on social media can help clinicians address patient concerns and misinformation.

Studies evaluating social media posts on contraception have found the most popular methods discussed across platforms are intrauterine devices and oral contraceptive pills. Side effects are the most frequently discussed topic on all social media formats, with negative effects discussed much more frequently than benefits. People viewing social media are often more drawn to posts around the logistics of contraception. Most videos are created by nonhealthcare professionals and are more likely to contain misinformation than videos created by healthcare professionals.

Social media is an important tool that patients are using to access information about contraception. Physicians and clinicians should understand the themes patients are discussing so that they can address them in counseling. Physicians, clinicians, and healthcare organizations should consider contributing high-quality information to social media to improve accuracy and counter misinformation.