Navigating information online
after an ovarian cancer diagnosis
We often hear that after being diagnosed, it can feel like cancer information is everywhere online.
Every scroll seems to bring another story about treatment or diagnosis. News articles appear that you’ve never searched for, and social media starts recommending posts that may feel frightening or overwhelming.
It’s completely natural to want to be informed after an ovarian cancer diagnosis. Searching for information can help you understand your diagnosis, while social media can connect you with others who have shared experiences and supportive communities.
The key is finding a balance that works for you. Understanding why certain content is being recommended can help you have more control over what you see.
Why you may be seeing more cancer-related content
Search engines like Google and social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Reddit use computer systems called algorithms to personalise what you see online.
Think of an algorithm as a digital assistant whose job is to recommend content it thinks you’ll be interested in. It makes these decisions based on what you search for, click on, watch, like and spend time reading.
This can influence the content you start to see more of. Here is how it works.
After an ovarian cancer diagnosis you might:
- Search for ovarian cancer symptoms
- Visit the Ovarian Cancer Foundation New Zealand website
- Read about your cancer type
- Watch a YouTube video about treatment
- Read an article about chemotherapy
To the algorithm, these actions all send the same message:
“This person is interested in ovarian cancer.”
The algorithm doesn’t understand why you’re searching. It doesn’t know you’ve just received a diagnosis or that you’re looking for reliable information. It simply notices your activity and begins recommending more content on similar topics.
Alongside this social media platforms are designed to keep people engaged by recommending content they think they’re likely to interact with. Engagement is part of how many platforms generate advertising revenue.
Over time, this can create a cycle where cancer-related posts, articles and videos appear more often across your social media feeds.
The algorithms don't know your story
This is perhaps the most important thing to remember, the algorithms influencing the recommendations of content you receive doesn’t know your story.
They don’t know:
- Your individual diagnosis
- Your cancer type
- Your stage
- Your treatment plan
- What information is helpful, or unhelpful for you right now
Instead, the algorithms group together content using keywords and patterns.
That means you might be shown stories about someone with a completely different diagnosis or treatment pathway simply because both posts mention “ovarian cancer.” Every woman’s experience is valid, but it doesn’t mean every story reflects your own journey.
Why can this feel overwhelming?
Receiving an ovarian cancer diagnosis often comes with uncertainty, fear and questions. Searching for those answers online can be helpful, but when cancer-related content then begins appearing in places where you weren’t looking for it, it can become difficult to switch off.
Emotional stories, dramatic headlines or widely shared posts can therefore find their way into your recommendations alongside balanced health information.
Remember: algorithms are designed to recommend content and keep you interested, not to provide personalised medical advice.
Your healthcare team understands your individual diagnosis. The internet does not.
Tips to create a healthier online experience
Looking after your emotional wellbeing is just as important as learning about your diagnosis. And the great news is that you do, in fact, have more control than you might think. While there isn’t a button to completely reset your online recommendations, there are simple steps you can take to create a more balanced online experience.
Choose trusted sources
When you’re looking for information, start with trusted organisations such as Ovarian Cancer Foundation New Zealand and other reputable health organisations, or ask your healthcare team.
Remember, social media isn't medical advice
If a story or piece of information online worries you, try not to assume it applies to you. Your healthcare team understands your diagnosis, treatment and individual circumstances, so talk to them about information you’ve seen online if you’re unsure.
Use tools to control what you do and don't see
Remember, algorithms learn from your behaviour. If you continue watching, reading and engaging with cancer-related posts, they’ll likely recommend more of them.
If you begin seeing more cancer content than you’d like:
- Select “Not Interested” or “Hide Post” on Facebook and Instagram
- Use Instagram’s Hidden Words feature to filter words or phrases you’d prefer not to see, such as cancer
- Clear your search history if you’d like to reduce personalised recommendations
- Spend time interacting with things you enjoy, what you click, watch and engage with shapes your future recommendations
- Use tools built into your phone to help manage your time online – screen Time on iPhone and Digital Wellbeing on Android allow you to set daily limits for social media apps
These changes may not transform your feed immediately, but consistently telling platforms what you do and don’t want to see can help over time.
Take a break from the information
It’s okay to take a break from seeking information, then come back when you’re feeling ready. Some people want to know as much information about their diagnosis as possible whereas others don’t.
Sometimes the most helpful thing you can do is close your laptop or put away your phone, spend time with loved ones or enjoy an activity that gives your mind a rest like a walk, cooking or reading a book.
If something you’ve seen online leaves you feeling fearful or overwhelmed, it’s okay to reach out. Talk with someone you trust, your healthcare team, or a professional support service. You can also access support through OCFNZ, find out more on our support webpages.
Final thoughts
You don’t have to read every article or watch every video to be well informed. Choosing trusted sources, setting healthy boundaries and taking control of your online experience can help you stay up to date without feeling overwhelmed.