A leading expert in women’s health has expressed concerns that a potential ban on social media platforms could hinder teenagers from accessing crucial health-related information. Dame Professor Lesley Regan emphasized the importance of platforms like TikTok and Instagram in educating young people about topics such as menstruation.
Speaking before the Women and Equalities Committee, Dame Lesley highlighted a disturbing anecdote about a young girl’s traumatic experience with her first period. She stressed the need for accessible communication channels to ensure that adolescents are well-informed.
As a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Imperial College London, Dame Lesley raised doubts about the feasibility of enforcing a ban on social media for those under 16. She underscored the effectiveness of visual aids like infographics in conveying essential information to a younger audience.
The UK government recently launched a consultation on implementing a social media ban for individuals under 16, citing concerns about safeguarding children’s well-being. The proposal has garnered support from various quarters, including parents who have witnessed the negative impact of social media on vulnerable individuals.
Advocates for the ban, including Labour MPs and parents like Esther Ghey, have stressed the detrimental effects of excessive social media use on youth. They argue that limiting access to social platforms could protect young people from potential harm and promote healthier interactions offline.
The consultation aims to gather feedback from parents, young people, and advocacy groups to assess the viability of a ban on under-16s. Additionally, it will explore the possibility of enforcing stricter age verification measures on social media platforms and regulating features that encourage compulsive usage.
Dame Lesley also highlighted the importance of educating boys about menstruation, citing initiatives by charitable organizations like Wellbeing of Women. She emphasized the positive impact of inclusive education sessions that involve both boys and girls in learning about reproductive health.