The Impact of Using Virtual Space on Women’s Sports and Health: A Systematic Review

Document Type : Review

Authors

1 Department of General Sciences, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran

2 Clinical Research Development Center, Nemazee Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran

3 Clinical Research Development Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Namazee Hospital, Shiraz, Iran

10.30476/jhmi.2025.107653.1297

Abstract

Introduction: In the era of information and communication, media and cyberspace are
among the most crucial tools for achieving social and cultural objectives, playing a pivotal
role in promoting women’s sports and health, and shaping new perspectives on these topics.
This study aimed to systematically review the impact of cyberspace on women’s sports and
health and to identify the associated opportunities and challenges.
Methods: This systematic review evaluated the role of cyberspace and social media in
women’s health and physical activity. A comprehensive search of the PubMed and Google
Scholar databases was conducted, with a time limit of 10 years from 2015 to the present. This
systematic review was conducted based on the reporting preferences for systematic reviews
and meta-analyses. Keywords and MeSH terms related to cyberspace, media, social networks,
and women’s health were used in the search strategy.
Results: A total of 8,258 records were identified through database searches, and 11 studies
met the eligibility criteria. The findings indicated that social media platforms enhanced
motivation, peer support, and access to health information; however, they also posed risks,
such as misinformation and pressure to conform to body image ideals. Overall, cyberspace
interventions show promising potential, provided that issues of quality control and digital
equity are addressed. Out of 8258 identified studies, 11 were included in the analysis. 64% of
the articles found were domestic, indicating the importance of this topic within the country.
Conclusion: This review showed that cyberspace and social networks generally enhanced
women’s health awareness, motivation, and participation in physical activity, though risks
such as misinformation, pressure to maintain a positive body image, and online harassment
were also noted. It is recommended that policymakers and health professionals design gendersensitive
digital interventions that promote health literacy while minimizing harms. Future
studies should adopt longitudinal and interventional designs to evaluate the sustainability
and safety of these approaches, particularly in Iran.

Highlights

Foroozandeh Zaravar: Google Scholar

Maryam Gholami: Google Scholar

Keywords

Main Subjects

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Health Management & Information Science
Volume 13, Issue 1
January 2026
Pages 1-12

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