Belfast Experts Address Hormonal Contraception Anxiety Among Youth

Concerns over hormonal contraception have surged among young people in Northern Ireland, influenced significantly by social media platforms such as TikTok. According to experts at the recent Sexual Health Conference in Belfast, this anxiety is contributing to a rise in unplanned pregnancies as misinformation circulates online.

During the conference held on March 15, 2024, Arlene McLaren, the CEO of the sexual health charity Common Youth, highlighted the dual nature of information available to young people. While some content offers valuable insights, harmful myths often overshadow positive messages. This has led many young women to forgo hormonal contraception, fearing potential side effects based on sensationalized online narratives.

McLaren pointed out that young women are increasingly anxious about the effects of hormonal contraceptives, particularly regarding weight gain and mental health issues. She noted that peer-shared experiences of contraceptive failure often deter young individuals from utilizing reliable contraceptive methods. Instead, trends influenced by social media, which prioritize “natural” health approaches like fertility awareness, are gaining traction, despite evidence indicating these methods’ lower effectiveness.

Dr. Siobhan Kirk, a consultant in sexual and reproductive health at the Belfast Trust, echoed these sentiments, stating, “There’s not just one pill.” She emphasized the importance of awareness regarding the variety of hormonal and non-hormonal contraceptive options available to the public.

At the conference, McLaren discussed the increase in consultations at Common Youth, where staff are witnessing a growing number of young women expressing fears of side effects from hormonal contraception. She shared that many young individuals are deterred by anecdotal accounts of negative experiences, which dominate social media narratives.

Dr. Caroline Hunter, also affiliated with Common Youth, recounted a case involving a 20-year-old woman who sought a pregnancy test after changing her contraceptive pill due to headaches. The woman had been misinformed about the necessary precautions following her switch, leading to undue stress. Dr. Hunter explained that medical professionals sometimes fail to provide adequate attention and information to younger patients, which can foster distrust in healthcare services.

“Sometimes, young people are not getting the best care because they are intimidated by medical settings and do not voice their concerns,” Dr. Hunter remarked. This highlights a critical gap in the communication between healthcare providers and their younger patients.

Both McLaren and Dr. Kirk called for improved engagement from healthcare professionals on social media platforms. They suggested that trusted ambassadors could effectively disseminate evidence-based information about the benefits of various contraceptive methods. Additionally, they advocated for enhanced Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) that is inclusive of all young people, including boys and transgender individuals who are part of contraceptive discussions.

Dr. Kirk also reassured the audience about the accessibility of sexual health services. She noted that the Belfast Trust offers rapid self-referral options, same-day consultations, and quick appointments for contraceptive implants or coils. Despite these services, many women remain unaware of their availability until they require them.

“There are multiple options for contraceptive pills, and new methods are being introduced regularly,” Dr. Kirk stated. “It’s crucial for people to understand that if one method causes side effects, it does not mean all will.”

As misinformation continues to pose challenges, both McLaren and Dr. Kirk are determined to improve the narrative surrounding hormonal contraception and ensure that young people have access to reliable, factual information. For more details about the services provided by the Belfast Trust, visit the Sexual Health and HIV Services section on their website.