Social Media Misinformation Drives Negative Perceptions, Reduces Contraceptive Pill Use Among Women

Social media, particularly platforms like TikTok, is significantly influencing young women’s perceptions and experiences of contraceptive pills, often fostering negative views that contribute to high discontinuation rates within two years of use. Studies from the University of Sheffield reveal that this negative influence is linked to the “nocebo effect,” where psychological factors such as anxiety, negative expectations, and mistrust in medicines trigger or amplify real side effects like depression, anxiety, and fatigue. Researchers identified four key psychological factors—including expecting harm from the outset and low confidence in medication development—that increase the likelihood of experiencing these negative symptoms. The widespread misinformation and anecdotal advice from influencers on social media exacerbate these effects, promoting fears about health risks and encouraging switches to less effective contraception methods. This decline in contraceptive pill use has been associated with a rise in unintended pregnancies and abortion rates, raising public health concerns. Experts suggest that addressing the psychological components of pill side effects may help develop interventions to support women in their contraceptive choices and counteract misinformation.