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

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to assess the quality and reliability of YouTube videos on ectopic pregnancies for the public. MethodWe 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. ResultsA total of 37 videos met the inclusion criteria. The mean overall DISCERN score was 44.5 & PLUSMN; 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). ConclusionYouTube 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.

Automated summary

The objective of this study was to evaluate the quality and reliability of YouTube videos on ectopic pregnancies. A total of 37 videos that met the inclusion criteria were analyzed using the DISCERN instrument, with an average overall score of 44.5±15.6. Videos that included explanations on anatomy, physiopathology, diagnosis, treatments, symptoms, clear information, animations, and a physician speaking had higher DISCERN scores.