Feasibility and acceptability of a digitally supported channel for behavioral messaging on modern contraception: A pilot cross-section study in Uganda (Preprint)

Background: With the region’s highest population growth rate (30%), Uganda is at the brick of a population explosion yet access and utilization of the public health control measures like modern contraception is a challenge. This is premised on the remotely located health facilities, non-customized health content and poor or non-functional post facility follow-up. Objective: The aim of our study was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a telehealth engagement platform targeting primarily men with behavioral and informational messaging on modern contraception (family planning) and its impact on shaping their sexual and reproductive health (SRH) knowledge and uptake of family planning services Methods: A longitudinal cohort of men aged 18 years and above were consented to receive mobile messages on family planning and followed up at month 1,4 and 6 to assess key study related outcomes on knowledge transfer and acquisition on modern contraception, partner communication and spouse uptake of family planning. Results: Out of the 450 males (primary study participants) onboarded onto the FP mobile messages, 426 (95%) successfully received the messages and only 24 reported not to have received the mobile health content. The average response (participation) rate to the weekly quizzes was 23% for periodic quizzes. There was a noted 18.1% increment in couple communication attributed to the mTIP and couples opened more about each other on matters concerning family planning. Conclusions: Availing channels to address beneficiaries’ concerns and inquiries in real-time or as fast as possible help to increase likelihood for adoption of family planning among couples. (JMIR Preprints 22/10/2021:34424) DOI: https://doi.org/10.2196/preprints.34424