Abstract
Background
The objective of this research was to evaluate the feasibility, reach and potential
behavioral impact of providing automated family planning information via mobile phones
to the general public in Tanzania.
Study Design
Data from users of the Mobile for Reproductive Health (m4RH) program were collected
during the 10-month pilot period. First, contraceptive methods queried by each user
were electronically logged by the mobile phone system. Second, four text questions
assessing gender, age, promotion point and potential family planning impact were sent
to every user.
Results
During the pilot period, 2870 unique users accessed m4RH in Tanzania, resulting in
4813 queries about specific contraceptive methods. Among those responding to text
questions, 56% were female and approximately 60% were 29 or younger years in age.
A variety of changes in family planning use were mentioned after using m4RH, with
reported changes consistent with where users are in their reproductive life cycle.
Conclusions
Reaching younger people, women and men of reproductive age with family planning information
delivered via mobile phone is recommended.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: August 29, 2012
Accepted:
July 13,
2012
Received in revised form:
July 2,
2012
Received:
January 17,
2012
Identification
Copyright
© 2013 Elsevier Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
