Abortion on the rise in the UK: False information published on TikTok pointed out

In the United Kingdom, and Scotland in particular, abortions increased by almost 20% between 2021 and 2022, an unprecedented increase. Young women are particularly concerned.

Contraception, condom, implant, Unsplash- rhsupplies pill ©

By: Emeline Vin Follow

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From our correspondent in London,

Scottish doctors note a multitude of factors that may explain this increase in abortions. Gynecologists and doctors denounce in particular an increase in false videos on TikTok and social networks in general with the multiplication of hashtags#naturalbirthcontrol (natural contraception) and #hormonefree (without hormones).

Influencers

Example of a message leaked in the videos: "Natural contraception is 'the way forward'. The fertility observation method is great: you monitor your cycle by measuring your body temperature and analyzing your cervical mucus. Dum, it's so effective. You see your follicular phases, luteal, ovulation and menstruation... To know when you are fertile or not. I've been using it for three years, it's really effective. But you have to do it right!

Fertility observation methods are rather recommended to increase a couple's chances of conceiving. And yet, many videos show young women with thermometers, taking their temperature every morning. Influencers who use scientific terms and who call themselves "hormone coach", "wellness coach" or "lifestyle specialist".

Rejection of conventional methods of contraception

These methods of contraception are completely unreliable. According to Scottish health specialists, "natural" methods such as temperature measurement are only 75% reliable (and also do not protect against sexually transmitted infections). Even less reliable in women who have irregular periods, which often happens for young girls. Influencers do not say it in their videos, which rarely last more than a minute and often do not offer an alternative.

This movement is accompanied by a rejection (still on social networks and TikTok in particular) of the pill and hormonal methods. There are the stories described on these networks that have gone viral: these women whose acne exploded with the pill, who gained a lot of weight, or whose IUD fell off on its own.

Unequal access to care

These self-proclaimed specialists make frightening – and unfounded – speeches about hormonal methods, which are highly carcinogenic, disrupt the intestinal flora and lead to depression. These are possible side effects of hormonal contraception, but extremely rare.

Scottish doctors are calling on young women to consult their GP, their gynaecologist to find the method of contraception that suits them - it is reminded that every woman is different. But deplore the shortage of health professionals, throughout the country, and therefore unequal access to care. They are calling for more sex education in middle and high schools, to enable all young people to have the tools to deal with online medical misinformation.

See also Rights to abortion: the European Union powerless in the face of attempts to turn back the clock

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