1. DMPA on TikTok
- #DepoProvera, An analysis of the most popular TikTok videos about Medroxyprogesterone Acetate in Contraception
TikTok has become a major source of information about contraception for the general public. However, much of the information is shaped by personal anecdotes rather than evidence-based facts. This study analyzed the 100 most-watched TikTok videos mentioning DMPA (64 million cumulative views), evaluating medical accuracy, tone and intent. Most content creators were female-presenting laypeople, and 60% had a negative impression of DMPA. One third of videos were made by medical professionals, whose content was notably more scientifically accurate. Findings highlight the need for clinicians to proactively address online misinformation, validate users’ experiences, and provide evidence-based counseling that aligns with patients’ digital realities.
2. OTC pill sales
- One Year of Opill: Retail Sales of Over-the-Counter Birth Control Pills in the United States in Contraception
In 2023, the FDA approved Opill, the first over-the-counter (OTC) contraceptive pill in the United States. This OTC progestin-only pill approval was a milestone expected to expand access by removing barriers to birth control. Yet, an analysis of retail sales from January 2024 to June 2025 found that while Opill sales are gradually increasing, they comprise only 2% of all contraceptive pill sales in the US. The authors suggest possible reasons for this slow uptake, primarily lack of public awareness and cost ($19.99/pack). OTC birth control pills remain an underutilized resource in the US, and both education and cost coverage may help OTC pills realize their full potential for improving contraceptive access.
3. Misoprostol & IUD placements
- Misoprostol for intrauterine device placement in Cochrane Database of Systematic reviews
Misoprostol, a prostaglandin that causes the uterus to soften and dilate, has been proposed to reduce pain during intrauterine device (IUD) placements. Existing evidence, however, suggests that misoprostol is only useful in specific situations, such as repeat attempts after a failed IUD placement. This Cochrane systematic review of 14 randomized controlled trials, including a total of 1972 patients, found that preprocedural misoprostol did not reduce pain during tenaculum or IUD placement, nor improve post-procedure pain or reported provider ease of insertion. It did result in a slight increase in placement success in patients who had a recent failed placement attempt. Due to limited studies, it was not possible to summarize patient satisfaction with misoprostol. This review reaffirms that misoprostol is not useful in reducing pain during IUD placement, and given the potential side effects, such as abdominal pain and nausea, it should not be used routinely. It remains a potentially useful tool for patients who have already had a failed attempt at IUD placement and wish to try again.
4. Conversations About Race in Perinatal Care
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