Using the Internet to Find Information About Abortion and Reproductive Health and Abortion
This short guide contains questions you should consider as you look for abortion information online. Answering these questions will help you to evaluate the quality and correctness of the information you find.
Who runs this web site?
In general, reliable Web sites will make it easy for you to determine who or what group is responsible for the site and its information. The name of the individual or organization should be clearly marked on the site's home page. Ideally, the name should be "linked" to information about the source. If so, take a look at this information to learn more about mission, funding, etc. Consider this information as an important context for what you read on the site.
Who pays for the site?
It costs money to run a Web site. Where does the money come from? Source funding should be clearly stated or easy to find. Or consider the obvious. Does the site contain advertising? If so, consider the advertisers' interests. The suffix of the site address may also be a useful guide. If a Web site address ends in ".gov", this means that the site is a Federal Government sponsored site. How a Web site is funded can affect what information is presented, how it is presented, and what its owners hope to accomplish.
What is the purpose of the site?
Many Web sites contain an "About this Site" link. Read it. The purpose of the site should be clearly stated and should help you to evaluate whether the information on the site is information you can trust.
Where does the site information come from?
Many abortion-related sites post information gathered from other sites or sources. Original sources should be clearly identified. If information is described as "scientific research," it should be accompanied by a clear reference to where and when it was first published. Also keep in mind that one hallmark of good science is that conflicting findings and opinions should be explained and considered.
What is the basis of the information?
Sound information should be based on evidence. Opinions, commentary, and advice should be clearly set apart from information based on research and evidence.
How is the information selected for inclusion on the site?
Does the site have an editorial board? Is its information reviewed by qualified professionals before it is posted to the site?
How current is the information?
Web sites should be reviewed and updated on a regular basis. This is especially important for Web sites claiming to present scientific and/or medical information about abortion. Research is an ongoing process, and the "facts" about abortion grow and sometimes change dramatically as new research is conducted to address new questions. The Web site's most recently "update" or "review" date should be clearly posted on its home page. Also pay attention to the dates listed in any information citations or references. If information is more than a year or two old, it is a good idea to continue your search for additional, more recent findings.
How does this site choose its links to other sites?
Web sites usually have policies about how they establish links to other sites. Some sites link to any other site that requests a link. Other sites request payment for a link. Many sites link only to other sites that meet certain criteria, such as mission consistency or agreement. Many linked sites may provide additional useful information. In general, thought, it's not a good idea to limit your information search in this way. Back out and continue your information search by using your own browser and search terms.
Does the Web site ask for information about who you are?
Many sites track visitors' paths to determine what pages are most interesting or popular. This is usually harmless. However, be cautious about sites that ask you to "subscribe," "join," "register," "log in," or "become a member." Sometimes, the purpose of this is to solicit a user fee or gather personal information. Some Web sites sell such data to others. Be sure you read and understand the Web site's privacy policy. This should tell you exactly what the site's operators will and won't do with your private information. Don't sign up for anything unless you fully understand and accept it.
Can you interact with a site manager?
Legitimate Web sites provide an opportunity for visitors to contact the site owner to report problems, share feedback, or ask questions. If the site hosts a chat room or mailing list, there should be clear information about the terms and rules of participation. It's not a good idea to join or participate in an online discussion area without first taking the time to read previous discussion material to be sure you feel comfortable with the environment.
