YouTube as a source of information on ectopic pregnancy: A qualitative and quantitative analysis

Abstract

Objective The aim of this study was to assess the quality and reliability of YouTube videos on ectopic pregnancies for the public. Method We searched for the key terms “ectopic pregnancy”, “ectopic birth” and “extra uterine pregnancy” on YouTube. Each video that met the inclusion criteria was analyzed by two independent raters. Quantitative and qualitative metrics were recorded, and the videos were scored using the DISCERN instrument. Results A total of 37 videos met the inclusion criteria. The mean overall DISCERN score was 44.5 ± 15.6. Videos had significantly a higher DISCERN score if they contained explanations on anatomy (pvalue <0.01), physiopathology (p-value <0.01), diagnosis (p-value = <0.01), treatments (p-value <0.01), symptoms (p-value <0.01), clear information (p-value <0.01), animations (p-value <0.01) and if it was a physician speaking (p-value <0.01). Conclusion YouTube videos on ectopic pregnancy have been assessed to be only fairly reliable. We identified the five best ones using the validated DISCERN instrument. While ectopic pregnancy is not uncommon, YouTube videos should be improved to provide more accurate information for the public.