Young people are increasingly relying on social media platforms for information about contraception, particularly TikTok. Experts are calling for a national education campaign to combat the spread of misinformation that could mislead young users. A study conducted by La Trobe University highlights the prevalence of unreliable content on TikTok, raising serious concerns about the quality of information available.
The analysis examined 100 TikTok videos from the top five hashtags related to contraception, which collectively garnered an astonishing 4.85 billion views. Alarmingly, only 10 percent of these videos were produced by health professionals. Researchers identified a troubling trend in the content, with a noticeable preference for natural contraceptive methods over hormonal options. This approach often failed to convey critical information regarding pregnancy risks associated with these methods.
According to Daile Kelleher, chief executive of Sexual and Reproductive Health Australia (SRHA), natural methods such as cycle tracking are less reliable for preventing pregnancy compared to hormonal methods. “These methods rely on a variety of factors being in place, and there is not a lot of room for error. The room for error is an unintended pregnancy,” she noted.
Despite the potential for social media to serve as a platform for sharing experiences and reducing stigma, Kelleher emphasized the importance of consulting healthcare professionals for accurate health information. She urged individuals to engage with their doctors, asking questions based on what they have heard online. “It’s crucial to empower people to know that there are various options available to them,” she said.
The influence of negative experiences shared on social media can skew perceptions. Kelleher pointed out that if users see many adverse stories about a specific method, such as an IUD (intrauterine device), they may overlook its suitability for themselves.
With approximately one in five young women relying on social media for contraception advice, SRHA advocates for a national campaign to raise awareness about contraception. Such a campaign would aim to counter misinformation, bridge knowledge gaps, and promote informed choices regarding sexual health.
In an initiative to address persistent myths on TikTok, Sexual Health Victoria has launched its own TikTok account. According to Sam Read, head of education at SHV, these videos can attract significant views, especially on sensitive topics where clear messaging is essential. “There is a substantial opportunity for education that includes upskilling parents, health professionals, and teachers,” Read said, emphasizing the need for conversations that are non-judgmental and informative.
Despite high rates of contraceptive use, one-third of Australian women have experienced unplanned pregnancies, costing the nation an estimated $7.2 billion AUD annually. Additionally, Australia has one of the lowest uptake rates of long-acting reversible contraception methods, standing at only 12 percent. In contrast, countries like France and Canada report rates around 40 percent.
In February 2023, the federal government announced a $573 million AUD women’s health package aimed at increasing access to IUDs and birth control implants and adding new oral contraceptive pills to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Kelleher stressed, however, that if individuals lack knowledge or confidence in these methods, they are unlikely to choose them.
“Any public awareness campaign should target both patients and healthcare professionals to ensure accurate advice is shared,” she stated. Kelleher highlighted the importance of involving the community in the government’s women’s health agenda to avoid missed opportunities in sexual and reproductive health education.
As misinformation continues to proliferate across social media, the call for a coordinated national response is becoming increasingly urgent. Addressing these gaps in understanding could significantly improve the health outcomes and choices available to young people navigating their reproductive health.
