Guiding the Scroll: How to Effectively Regulate Reproductive Health Information on social media?

Abstract

Introduction: In women, health literacy has the potential to profoundly affect numerous aspects of reproductive healthcare.This qualitative study seeks to explore healthcare providers' perspectives on the impact of social media on women’s reproductive health literacy and to identify strategies for improving and regulating this rapidly evolving domain. Material & Methods: This study was conducted in a span of ten months (from October 2023 to July 2024), with a qualitative descriptive design. In the final analysis, 43 participants (11 postgraduates, 21 undergraduates and 11 consultants) were included, as by then saturation was reached. Results: Four key themes emerged from the analysis of the data with seventeen subthemes. The key themes included A. Content alert: Accuracy and censorship information, B. Credibility and verification, C. Enforcement and penalties, D. Education, accreditation and ensuring quality. Conclusion: As misinformation continues to proliferate in digital spaces, it becomes increasingly vital to establish effective regulatory frameworks. Implementing well-considered measures across all three levels of control—content creators, consumers, and platforms—can significantly enhance the quality and reliability of health information shared online. By fostering collaboration among these stakeholders, we can create a more informed public and mitigate the risks associated with misleading reproductive health information in social media environments.