Instagram’s Pelvic Organ Prolapse Content Discusses Limited Treatment Options Leaving Users Susceptible to Biased Information

Abstract

Objective The aim of the study was to evaluate the quality, understandability, and actionability of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) posts accessible to users on Instagram. Materials and Methods Instagram posts were analyzed using the hashtag, “#PelvicOrganProlapse.” Posts were limited to the English-language and posts containing POP content. Posts were assessed using the International Urogynecological Association (IUGA)/International Continence Society (ICS) joint report guidelines and two validated questionnaires: DISCERN quality criteria and the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool (PEMAT). Results Overall, 105 posts were evaluated. Instagram posts published by health and wellness groups (44%) were the most common. Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) was the most prevalent treatment option mentioned (59%). Moderate to poor quality information was represented in 76% of posts. Twenty-five posts were found to have commercial bias. Over 2/3 of posts had a low PEMAT score for actionability (score <75%). PFMT was the most frequently discussed treatment option for POP; however, Instagram posts do not address other therapies like surgery and pessaries. Conclusion Instagram posts contain limited content with poor quality information, which increasingly focuses on managing POP with PFMT. The absence of complete information on treatment modalities can limit unknowing users from alternative options, thus hindering their judgment.