Sexual Health Week – Reflecting on the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) and countering misinformation
Artificial intelligence (AI), social media, and rapid access to information are playing an increasingly important role in our lives, including when it comes to relationships, information, and sexual health. While they make it easier to access helpful content, these digital spaces also come with important challenges—like unreliable information, misinformation, privacy risks, and human rights concerns.
When it comes to sexual health, it can be hard to tell what’s true and what’s not. Myths and misinformation circulate about sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs), contraception, consent, preventing unplanned pregnancies, and relationships. That’s why it’s important to stay informed, talk about these topics, and strengthen our critical thinking skills.

Tips for navigating the digital world more safely and responsibly:
- Always check the source of the sexual health information you find before believing it or sharing it. Favour recognized, scientific organizations, as well as health professionals.
- Verify the information by comparing it with other reliable sources or by asking trusted individuals or qualified professionals.
- Use social media and AI responsibly and cautiously.
- Protect your privacy by avoiding sharing personal or intimate information online.
- Protect your rights by remembering the importance of consent, respect, and boundaries—both online and offline.
To learn more about how to spot fake news and verify information, visit the following website: Finding Reliable Sexual Health Info Online | Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights You can also explore workshops: Break the Fake: How to tell what’s true online | MediaSmarts

Here are a few resources:
Telephone Support Service
- 811 to speak to a health care professional
- Provincial STBBI helpline: 1-833-603-0499
- Provincial HIV information helpline: 1-800-561-4009
- Public Health offices (Vitalité Health Network – https://vitalitenb.ca/en/health-network/public-health/our-offices/sante-publique/645 and Horizon Health Network – https://horizonnb.ca/services/public-health/
Websites
- CATIE: https://www.catie.ca/
- Health Canada: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/sexual-health.html
- Canadian Centre for Child Protection: https://protectchildren.ca/en/
- Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC): Public Resources
- Government of New Brunswick (GNB): https://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/corporate/promo/sexual-health-and-well-being.html
- Canadian Paediatric Society (Caring for Kids): Preteens and Teens
- Naître et grandir: Sexual behaviours in children
- Prevention of sexual violence – Fondation Marie-Vincent: Home | Marie-Vincent Foundation
Together, let’s better understand the influence and impact of AI, digital media, and online information on our sexual health, our rights, and our future.