WHO with expertise from the United Nation's Special Programme in Human Reproduction (HRP), has introduced a new resource aimed at helping developers and health professionals improve the quality of digital tools that provide family planning information. The Toolkit and content repository for digital client-facing platforms: family planning offers a collection of simplified, evidence-based messages that can be used in apps, social media, chatbots, and other digital platforms.
The toolkit is designed to support a wide range of users – from ministries of health and nongovernmental organizations to social media influencers and software developers – who are involved in creating or managing digital content related to contraception and reproductive health. The aim is for this toolkit to be adapted by local implementers who can contextualize the information for local relevance.
Filling gaps in digital health content
Digital platforms are increasingly used to share health information, but the quality of content can vary widely. WHO's new toolkit responds to concerns about misinformation and inconsistent messaging by offering a centralized, vetted source of family planning content based on its clinical guidelines.
"This toolkit is a practical resource for anyone looking to ensure their digital content aligns with WHO recommendations and a step in addressing misinformation." said Tigest Tamrat, Scientist at WHO and HRP and one of the project leads. "It's not a one-size-fits-all solution, but it provides a solid foundation that can be adapted to different contexts."
This toolkit is a practical resource for anyone looking to ensure their digital content aligns with WHO recommendations and a step in addressing misinformation.
What's inside the toolkit?
The toolkit includes four main components:
- health interventions and recommendations – a summary of WHO's guidance on family planning;
- user scenarios – examples of how different users might apply the toolkit in real-world settings;
- content repository – a downloadable spreadsheet of simplified messages and myth-busting facts; and
- performance metrics – suggested indicators for tracking user engagement and tool effectiveness.
The content is intentionally generic, allowing users to tailor it to local languages, cultural norms, and digital habits.
Practical use cases
The toolkit provides sample scenarios to illustrate how it might be used. For example, a programme manager might use it to update the content of an existing mobile app, while a social media influencer could use it to fact-check posts or respond to common questions from followers.
In one scenario, a fictional influencer named Aisha uses the toolkit to create a video series addressing common myths about contraception. Her content helps viewers like Miriam, a 19-year-old follower, feel more confident in making informed decisions about reproductive health.
Looking ahead: AI integration
While the toolkit currently focuses on scripted content, it could also support more advanced applications. For instance, artificial intelligence tools like chatbots could use the content repository to provide accurate, real-time responses to user questions. The document also highlights the potential of AI to personalize content based on user demographics and preferences.
A flexible resource
Rather than being a prescriptive solution, the toolkit is meant to be a flexible resource that can be adapted to different needs. It encourages collaboration with local experts and communities to ensure content is relevant and respectful.
