Expecting the truth: Dodging the crap online about pregnancy and birth
Over the past decade, the internet has gone from being a helpful sidekick to becoming the go-to guru for just about everything — including pregnancy and birth. With the rise of smartphones and a constant stream of advice from social media and online forums, expectant parents have more information at their fingertips than ever before. This digital revolution has empowered many to take charge of their birth experiences, giving them the tools to research, connect, and advocate like never before. But with all this power comes a catch: not all the information out there is created equal. The harsh truth is that anyone can post anything online, and it’s becoming increasingly difficult to determine the reliability of the information being shared. Everyone is guilty of bias to some degree, even me! The challenge now is figuring out how to separate the gems of wisdom from the noise.
Understanding information bias
When you're navigating the vast sea of pregnancy and birth information online, it's important to be aware of something called information bias. But what exactly is it? In simple terms, information bias is the tendency for certain types of information to be emphasised, exaggerated, or even omitted based on various factors, which can ultimately 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.
Types of bias
Now, let's break down some of the most common types of bias you might encounter.
Confirmation bias is when we gravitate towards information that confirms what we already believe, often without realising it. For instance, if you're already leaning toward a particular birth plan, you're more likely to focus on articles or stories that support your choice, while overlooking opposing views.
Selection bias occurs when the information presented is not representative of the whole picture. This can happen in studies where only certain groups are included, in online communities where specific viewpoints dominate, and even in discussions with healthcare providers when their recommendations reinforce hospital policies.
Publication bias is when studies with positive or sensational findings are more likely to be published and widely shared, while less exciting but equally important research gets buried.
Professional bias - different professionals, such as obstetricians, midwives and doulas, often view pregnancy and birth through different lenses based on their training, experience, and professional skill set. For example, an obstetrician, with their background in medical interventions and surgery, might emphasise the safety of hospital births and the importance of medical monitoring. In contrast, a midwife might prioritise the natural process of birth and advocate for minimal interventions, focusing on the mother’s overall experience. Doulas, on the other hand, often approach birth from a holistic and emotional support standpoint, which might lead them to highlight the importance of creating a comfortable, supportive environment. While each perspective is valuable, it's important to recognise that their professional backgrounds can influence the type of information they share. Being aware of these biases helps you approach information with a more critical eye.
Common sources of bias in pregnancy and birth information
When it comes to pregnancy and birth, not all information is created equal, and understanding where bias might originate can save you a lot of confusion. For example, there's often a noticeable difference between the perspectives of mainstream medical institutions and alternative birth communities. Medical sources might emphasise the perceived safety and control offered by hospital births and interventions, often over-selling the idea that hospital is the “best” place to give birth, while alternative communities might focus on the benefits of home births, sometimes downplaying risks. Both sides can have valid points, but their biases can shape the way information is presented. Similarly, commercial influence is a major source of bias. Companies that sell pregnancy-related products or services often have a vested interest in promoting certain ideas or practices — think about all those ads for maternity supplements or birth courses. Finally, 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 of this is the frequent portrayal of home birth in Western media as dangerous, which contributes to the widespread belief that hospitals are the safer option (to find out more about home versus hospital, you might be interested in another article I wrote which can be found here).
By recognising these sources of bias, you can better navigate the information you find and make decisions that are truly right for you.
Social media and birth information - goldmine or trash pile?
Social media has become a double-edged sword in the realm of pregnancy and birth information. On one hand, it provides instant access to a wealth of personal stories, expert advice, and community support. On the other hand, it’s a breeding ground for information bias. Algorithms often 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. Additionally, 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. As a result, while social media can be a valuable resource, it’s essential to approach the information with a critical eye, recognising that what you see may not represent the full picture. Remember - people only post what they want you to see!
Scrolling for answers? Make sure they're the right ones.
Identifying reliable sources
So, how do you cut through the bias and find reliable information? It all starts with evaluating the credibility of your sources. Look for information that comes from peer-reviewed studies, which are reviewed by experts in the field before being published. Expert opinions can also be valuable, especially when the experts are transparent about their qualifications, affiliations, and potential conflicts of interest. However, it’s also important to remember professional bias here - ask yourself “who wrote this?”. But don't stop there — cross-referencing information is key. Compare what you find from different sources, especially when it comes to major decisions. If multiple credible sources are saying the same thing, it's more likely to be accurate. On the other hand, if you notice wide discrepancies, it might be worth digging deeper to understand why. By being diligent in your research, you can sidestep much of the bias and feel more confident in the information you're using to guide your pregnancy and birth choices.
Remember, just because something was published in healthcare literature doesn't automatically make it quality information!
Birth stories
When it comes to pregnancy and birth, personal experiences can be incredibly powerful. Hearing someone’s firsthand account of their birth journey can be inspiring, comforting, and even educational. However, it’s important to remember that personal experiences are inherently subjective. What worked for one person might not work for another, simply because every pregnancy and birth is unique. Factors like individual health conditions, cultural background, and personal preferences all play a role in shaping these experiences. While these stories can offer valuable insights, they often reflect a single perspective rather than the broader reality. This subjectivity means that while personal anecdotes can be helpful, they should be viewed as one piece of the puzzle rather than the whole picture.
To make the most informed decisions about your own pregnancy and birth, it's crucial to balance the emotional pull of personal stories with evidence-based information. Personal experiences can provide context and help you relate to others' journeys, but they should be complemented with data and research that offer a more comprehensive view. For example, while a friend's positive experience with a particular birth intervention might reassure you, it's equally important to consider the broader research on its benefits and risks. This way, you're not just relying on one person's story but are also grounding your decisions in proven evidence. Striking this balance allows you to form a well-rounded understanding that respects the uniqueness of your situation while still being informed by the best available knowledge.
How does bias affect our decision-making process?
When it comes to making decisions about pregnancy and birth, bias can play a subtle yet significant role. Biases can shape the way we perceive our options, sometimes leading us toward choices that might not fully align with our values or best interests. For instance, if most of the information you encounter emphasises the benefits of certain medical interventions, you might feel pressured to choose those options, even if a more natural approach is what you truly prefer. On the other hand, a strong bias toward natural birth might make you hesitant to consider interventions that could be necessary or beneficial for your specific situation. These biases can cloud our judgment, making it difficult to see all sides of an issue and ultimately impacting the decisions we make. Understanding how bias influences your decision-making process is the first step toward making choices that genuinely reflect your personal values and circumstances.
The good news is that by recognising these biases, you can take steps to mitigate their impact and make more informed decisions. One effective strategy is to actively seek out diverse perspectives and sources of information. This means not only reading articles or studies that align with your current thinking but also exploring viewpoints that challenge or contrast with your own. Doing so can broaden your understanding and help you see the full range of options available to you. Additionally, when faced with important decisions, it can be helpful to 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?" By taking these steps, you can make choices that are informed, balanced, and most importantly, reflective of what you truly regard as best for you and your baby. Remember - different people make different choices!
Put on your sleuthing hats!
In today’s information-rich world, practicing critical thinking is essential, especially when navigating the vast and often conflicting advice on pregnancy and birth. One of the most effective ways to hone your critical thinking skills is by asking the right questions whenever you encounter new information. Start by considering, “Who is the source?” Understanding where the information comes from can give you insight into potential biases or agendas. Is the source a medical organisation, a personal blog, or a commercial entity? Next, ask yourself, “What is the evidence?” Solid information should be backed by reliable data or research, rather than just opinions or anecdotes. Finally, consider, “Is there a potential conflict of interest?” For example, if an article is sponsored by a company selling a particular product (hello breastfeeding information!), it’s worth questioning whether the information might be skewed to promote that product. By regularly asking these critical questions, you can more effectively filter the information you encounter, keeping the trustworthy details and discarding the rest.
Alongside critical thinking, media literacy plays a crucial role in determining the quality of the information you're exposed to, especially in the age of social media and online forums. Media literacy is being able to critically assess the content you're consuming, whether it’s news articles, social media posts, videos, or advertisements. It’s acknowledging that just because something is widely shared or popular doesn’t necessarily mean it’s accurate or unbiased. With the rise of influencers, viral posts, and targeted ads, it’s easier than ever to fall into the trap of believing information that’s presented in a compelling or emotionally charged way. But by developing strong media literacy skills, you can learn to see beyond the surface. 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, helping you make decisions that are based on fact rather than hype.
Don't take anything at face value - become an information detective!
What about the information I receive from healthcare professionals?
When navigating the overwhelming amount of information available on pregnancy and birth, consulting with healthcare providers can be invaluable. These professionals, whether they’re obstetricians, midwives, or GPs, bring years of training and experience to the table. They can provide personalised guidance based on your unique medical history and circumstances. However, it’s also important to recognise that healthcare providers, like everyone else, can be influenced by their own biases — whether they are aware of it or not. Their training, professional background, and personal experiences can shape the way they interpret and present information. For instance, an obstetrician might lean towards recommending certain medical interventions, they are surgeons after all, while a midwife might prioritise a more natural approach, being the experts around physiological birth (although this could be debated in our current maternity system, but I’ll leave that for another post!). Being aware of these potential biases allows you to engage in more open and informed discussions with your providers.
When discussing your options with healthcare professionals, don’t hesitate to ask them for the sources of the information they provide. Understanding where their advice comes from — whether it’s based on clinical guidelines, recent research, or personal experience — can give you valuable insight into the validity and relevance of the information. This not only helps you ensure that the guidance is rooted in up-to-date and reliable evidence but also empowers you to make more informed decisions that align with your own values and circumstances. By asking for the sources, you can better gauge whether the information is truly comprehensive or if it might be influenced by certain biases or outdated practices.
Everyone is biased to some degree, whether they are aware of it or not, even me!
Doulas are objective though, right? Right?!
Doulas and other birth support professionals 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 they 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!). While they can offer balanced, evidence-based perspectives, especially when the information you’re receiving from other sources feels skewed or overwhelming, being aware of these biases helps you make more informed choices. 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. This collaboration can empower you to make decisions that truly reflect your needs and decisions, providing a well-rounded support system throughout your pregnancy and birth journey.
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. These insights might not always be backed by studies, but they can still offer valuable perspectives. 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
Delving into the world of pregnancy and birth information can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re aware of the biases that can shape what you see and hear. But 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. This awareness empowers you to make choices that are not only informed by the best available evidence but also aligned with your personal values and circumstances. It’s about taking control of your experience and ensuring that the decisions you make reflect what feels right for you and your baby. Remember - different people make different choices!
As you continue your journey, remember that staying inquisitive is key to navigating information bias effectively. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek out different perspectives, and dig deeper into the sources of the information you encounter. The more you learn, the more confident you’ll become in your ability to discern reliable information from biased or incomplete narratives. This proactive approach not only strengthens your understanding but also helps you feel more empowered and reassured in the choices you make. After all, 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. By remaining curious and engaged, you can confidently navigate the complex landscape of pregnancy and birth information, ensuring that you and your baby are supported every step of the way.