An Evaluation of the Reliability and Quality of Information in Labiaplasty Videos Shared on YouTube

Abstract

Aim: The objective of this study was to evaluate the reliability and quality of videos on YouTube about labiaplasty procedures. Material and Methods: A search was carried out on YouTube using the search terms ‘labiaplasty’ and ‘labia minora reduction’. The first 100 videos for each keyword were evaluated and 42 videos were analyzed. The distribution of video types was examined. The videos were scored by a five-member committee using the global quality scale (GQS) and modified DISCERN (mDISCERN) scales. Videos uploaded by physicians and academicians were classified as professional, and patients, commercial entities, and allied health personnel were classified as non-professional groups. Results: The mean mDISCERN score of all videos was 2.29±0.65, while the mean GQS score was 2.75±0.67. When professional and non-professional groups were compared, the mDISCERN and GQS scores were significantly higher in the professional group (p=0.017 and p=0.010, respectively). When surgical technique videos and videos providing information about the disease or surgery were compared, there was a significant difference in video power index (VPI), viewing rate, and number of comments (p=0.001, p=0.001, and p=0.003, respectively), while there was no significant difference in terms of mDISCERN and GQS scores. Weak negative correlations were observed between the mDISCERN score and VPI (rs=-0.326, p=0.037), between the GQS score and viewing rate (rs=-0.392, p=0.010), and between the GQS score and VPI (rs=-0.382, p=0.014). Conclusion: YouTube is not a reliable source of information about labiaplasty. Low-quality videos receive more engagement. Obstetrics and gynecology associations should produce content on YouTube about this subject.