Impacto del uso de redes sociales en las gestantes del área norte de Madrid

Abstract

Objective

To evaluate the use of social media (SM) and its impact on pregnant women in the northern area of Madrid, Spain.

Method

An anonymous survey was conducted with 231 pregnant women who were monitored in the Obstetrics Service of La Paz University Hospital (Madrid). The use of various SM platforms and the information sought were evaluated, as well as the perceived credibility, influence on attitudes, and effects on perceived anxiety following their use.

Results

97% of pregnant women used SM, with 83.5% using it daily. Usage was higher among younger age groups, with Instagram being the most used SM platform. 81.7% of them followed profiles related to obstetrics/perinatal care, but one in five was unaware of the professionalism of the person behind the profile. Information about pregnancy, childbirth, neonatal care, and breastfeeding were the most sought-after topics, with an increase in the search for breastfeeding information among younger women. 45.4% considered the information to be highly credible, and 49.3% believed it could moderately influence their attitudes. Finally, 47.4% reported feeling moderately calm with the information, and 51.2% experienced low levels of anxiety.

Conclusions

The use of SM among pregnant women reflects that of the general population, with Instagram being the most popular platform. Many patients seek medical information on SM but often verify it with healthcare professionals. The credibility of information on SM varies, having a moderate influence on attitudes and perceived anxiety.