In 2008, FHI 360’s PROGRESS (Program Research for Strengthening Services) project began developing Mobile for Reproductive Health (m4RH), an opt-in SMS-based health communication program that provides information about nine family planning methods as well as a clinic database. FHI 360 conceptualized, developed, and deployed m4RH as part of a research study aimed at determining the feasibility of providing FP information via text message, the reach of this communication channel, and suggested impact on FP use. It was piloted and evaluated in Kenya and Tanzania from 2010-2011 in collaboration with several partners including the Ministries of Health in both countries. Results from the pilot indicate that women, men, young people and couples use m4RH to learn about the range of FP methods. Users find m4RH easy to use and understand and report increased FP knowledge as well as some behavior change. Since the pilot was completed, FHI 360 has expanded m4RH, developing and testing new messages using the same strategic health communications approach applied in the pilot.

This online tool includes both background information and practical tools to support your program. The toolkit is broken down into five components, including: 1) Planning & Design, 2) Content, 3) Technological Considerations, 4) Promotion, and 5) Evaluation.