Reproduction Abstracts

Social media has become a convenient source for healthcare information; however, the accuracy of social media content on medical conditions is a growing concern due to the prevalence of misinformation. This study evaluates the accuracy of hyperemesis gravidarum (HG)-related posts on social media platforms. We analyzed 30 fact-based posts from Instagram, Facebook, Reddit, and TikTok, gathered between 2023 and 2024, using a content accuracy scale from 1 (no evidence-based information) to 5 (highly accurate). Posts were classified by originator—clinicians (physicians, nurses, midwives) versus non-clinicians. Findings indicate that content was accurate, with a mean score of 4.03. Clinician-authored posts had a higher average accuracy rating (4.50) compared to non-clinician posts (3.68) (P = 0.02). Ratings did not vary significantly across platforms (P = 0.95). Both clinicians (2 posts) and non-clinicians (8 posts) posted inaccurate content defined as an average score less than 4. These results underscore the need for caution when seeking HG information on social media, as misinformation can be present regardless of the source. The study further emphasizes the importance of enhanced education on HG for both clinicians and non-clinicians and improved fact-checking practices for health-related content on social media platforms.

Keywords: Hyperemesis Gravidarum, Social Media, Misinformation

References

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