Expecting the truth: Dodging the crap online about pregnancy and birth
Over the past decade, the internet evolved from a helpful resource into the primary source of information for nearly everything, including pregnancy and birth.
Smartphones and a constant stream of advice from social media and online forums now equip expectant parents with more information than ever before. This digital shift empowers many to take charge of their birth experiences, giving them tools to research, connect, and advocate like never before. However, not all online information proves reliable. Anyone can post anything, which makes determining credibility increasingly difficult. Everyone, including me, carries some degree of bias. We face the challenge of separating valuable insights from misinformation.
Understanding information bias
Information bias is the tendency for certain types of information to be emphasised, exaggerated, or even omitted based on various factors, which can distort your understanding of a topic. This bias can creep in through the way studies are conducted, how news is reported, or even in the advice shared on forums and social media. Understanding this concept is the first step to making sure the information you're relying on is as accurate and balanced as possible.
Confirmation bias leads us to seek out information that supports our preexisting beliefs while ignoring opposing viewpoints. If you're already leaning toward a particular birth plan, you may focus on articles that reinforce your choice and overlook alternative perspectives.
Selection bias occurs when the presented information does not represent the full picture. This can happen in research studies that include only certain groups, in online communities dominated by specific viewpoints, and even in healthcare settings where recommendations align with institutional policies.
Publication bias favours studies with sensational or positive findings, making them more likely to be published and widely shared, while equally important but less exciting research gets overlooked.
Professional bias reflects the different perspectives of obstetricians, midwives, and doulas, shaped by their training and experiences. Obstetricians may emphasise medical interventions and hospital births; midwives may prioritise natural birth and minimal intervention; doulas often focus on emotional and holistic support. While each perspective is valuable, understanding these biases helps in making informed decisions.
Common sources of bias in pregnancy and birth information
Bias in pregnancy and birth information often stems from differences between mainstream medical institutions and alternative birth communities. Medical sources tend to emphasise hospital births and interventions as the safest options, while alternative communities may highlight home birth benefits while downplaying risks.
Commercial interests also play a role — companies promoting pregnancy-related products or services may shape narratives to boost sales. Think about all those ads for maternity supplements or birth courses.
Cultural and societal norms play a big role too. In some cultures, there's a strong emphasis on certain birth practices or ideals, which can lead to a biased presentation of what's considered "normal" or "best". A classic example is the frequent portrayal of home birth in Western media as dangerous, which contributes to the widespread belief that hospitals are the safer option.
By recognising these sources of bias, you can navigate the information you find more effectively and make decisions that are genuinely right for you.
Social media and birth information — goldmine or trash pile?
Scrolling for answers? Make sure they're the right ones.
Social media has become a double-edged sword in the realm of pregnancy and birth information. On one hand, it provides instant access to personal stories, expert advice, and community support. On the other hand, it's a breeding ground for information bias. Algorithms prioritise content that generates engagement, which means sensationalised or emotionally charged posts are more likely to appear in your feed. This can skew your perception, making certain viewpoints seem more prevalent or validated than they actually are. The echo chamber effect — where users are exposed mostly to information that aligns with their existing beliefs — can reinforce confirmation bias, limiting exposure to different perspectives. Remember — people only post what they want you to see!
Identifying reliable sources
Remember, just because something was published in healthcare literature doesn't automatically make it quality information!
To filter out bias, start by evaluating source credibility. Look for peer-reviewed studies and expert opinions from professionals who are transparent about their qualifications and affiliations. Cross-referencing information from multiple credible sources can help confirm accuracy. If discrepancies arise, digging deeper into the research can clarify potential biases. Just because something is published in healthcare literature doesn't automatically make it high-quality information.
The role of birth stories
Personal birth stories can be inspiring and educational, but they are inherently subjective. Every pregnancy and birth experience is unique, influenced by factors such as health conditions, cultural background, and personal preferences. While anecdotes provide valuable context, they should be balanced with evidence-based information. A friend's positive experience with a particular intervention may be reassuring, but broader research on its risks and benefits is equally important.
How bias affects our decision-making
Bias can subtly shape decision-making, sometimes leading people toward choices that don't fully align with their values or best interests. If most of the information encountered highlights the benefits of medical interventions, one might feel pressured to choose them, even if they prefer a natural approach. Conversely, a strong bias toward natural birth could discourage consideration of necessary medical interventions.
One effective strategy is to actively seek out diverse perspectives. This means not only reading articles that align with your current thinking but also exploring viewpoints that challenge or contrast with your own. When faced with important decisions, pause and reflect on whether your choices are being influenced by external pressures or biases rather than your own genuine preferences. Ask yourself, "Is this decision truly what I want, or am I being swayed by the information I've been exposed to?"
Put on your sleuthing hats!
Don't take anything at face value — become an information detective!
Critical thinking is essential when navigating the vast and often conflicting advice on pregnancy and birth. Start by asking:
- "Who is the source?" Is it a medical organisation, a personal blog, or a commercial entity?
- "What is the evidence?" Solid information should be backed by reliable data or research, not just opinions or anecdotes.
- "Is there a potential conflict of interest?" If an article is sponsored by a company selling a particular product, it's worth questioning whether the information might be skewed.
Alongside critical thinking, media literacy plays a crucial role. This means looking at the credibility of sources, identifying potential biases, and understanding the techniques used to grab your attention or sway your opinion. Ultimately, media literacy empowers you to be a more informed and discerning consumer of information.
Information from healthcare professionals
Everyone is biased to some degree, whether they are aware of it or not, even me!
Healthcare providers bring years of training and experience and can provide personalised guidance based on your unique medical history and circumstances. However, they, too, can be influenced by their own biases — shaped by their training, professional background, and personal experiences. An obstetrician might lean towards recommending certain medical interventions (they are surgeons after all), while a midwife might prioritise a more natural approach.
When discussing your options with healthcare professionals, don't hesitate to ask for the sources of the information they provide. Understanding whether their advice comes from clinical guidelines, recent research, or personal experience gives you valuable insight into the validity of the information. By asking for the sources, you can better gauge whether the information is truly comprehensive or influenced by certain biases or outdated practices.
Doulas are objective though, right? Right?!
Doulas can play a crucial role in helping you navigate the often-biased landscape of pregnancy and birth information. Unlike medical professionals, doulas focus on providing emotional, physical, and informational support, and often emphasise a more holistic and personalised approach to birth. However, it's important to remember that doulas also bring their own biases to the table, shaped by their training, experiences, and philosophies (sorry!). By working alongside your healthcare providers, doulas can help you see the full picture, ensuring that your birth plan encompasses your personal preferences, values, and the most current evidence.
A classic example of bias in the real world…
While promoting choice is at the heart of my birth philosophy, there are times when my own biases get the better of me. When I teach a birth class, the information I share with expectant parents is supported by evidence, but when I discuss my personal experiences, it's based on anecdotal or observational information. Recently, I had a difficult experience whilst supporting a hospital birth, and just two days later, I found myself teaching a class to a couple who were planning to give birth at the same hospital. I was acutely aware that my emotions were negatively colouring my view, and the information I shared as a result was biased. None of us are perfect, but what's crucial in these situations is the ability to self-reflect and maintain self-awareness.
Navigating the internet with confidence
By understanding and identifying these biases, you're already taking a powerful step toward making more informed decisions. Recognising where biases come from — whether it's from the source of the information, the professionals you consult, or even your own preferences — allows you to filter through the noise and focus on what truly matters to you and your birth journey.
Stay inquisitive. Don't be afraid to ask questions, seek out different perspectives, and dig deeper into the sources of the information you encounter. Pregnancy and birth are deeply personal experiences, and the decisions you make along the way should be guided by a combination of solid information, professional support, and your own intuition. Remember — different people make different choices!