The topic of discussion was the advertising restrictions surrounding women’s health information on various social media platforms and TV networks.
As someone deeply passionate about closing the GenderHealth gap, I feel compelled to shed light on the stark differences in how women’s health information is treated in the public sphere.
While ads featuring sexualised imagery of women often receive a green light, those addressing genuine aspects of women’s experiences—such as postpartum recovery or menstrual health—are frequently sidelined or, worse, completely overlooked.
Flip through TV channels or scroll through your social media feeds, and you’ll come across advertisements where women’s bodies are sexualised to sell products like underwear, cars, or clothing.
A semi-naked woman on an advertisement is deemed okay if it’s to sell something, but not if it is to talk about her health issues and spread awareness.
When it comes to empowering women with agency over their bodies, there is pin-drop silence.
Who’s to blame for this discrepancy?
The finger points in multiple directions, with “content guidelines” and “the algorithm” being the usual scapegoats of big conglomerates.
Women’s health issues seem to be treated as innuendos, whispered secrets, or hidden keywords.
And if you’re in the business of marketing women’s health products or raising awareness, navigating these platforms can feel like an uphill battle.
Content related to women’s health is policed with terms like “tasteful” and “sensitive”.
Whether it’s on Meta, Instagram, or Amazon, the line is drawn clearly—no depiction of genitals, breasts, or buttocks, even in educational contexts.
Everything is deemed “sexual” content, regardless of intent.
It is an R-rated post.
It must be flagged as inappropriate.
It must be censored and then…removed.
Censoring these vital conversations about women’s health endangers lives by perpetuating taboos and leaving millions of women vulnerable to preventable health conditions.
It’s essential that we advocate for more inclusive and transparent policies that are aimed at raising awareness amongst women to take control of their health.
Let’s continue to push for progress and ensure every woman has access to the health information she deserves.
Recently, I stumbled upon a concerning conversation…
