Health Information & Guides
Clear, evidence-based information about sexual and reproductive health. We believe accurate information is the foundation of good health decisions.
Contraception & Family Planning
Understand your contraceptive options, how different methods work, effectiveness rates, and how to access them. Family planning is about making choices that work for your life and health.
- • Types of contraception (hormonal, barrier, long-acting, permanent)
- • How to choose the right method for you
- • Where to access contraception in Nkhotakota and Thyolo
- • Managing side effects and switching methods
Reproductive Health Care
Information about caring for your reproductive health, including cervical health, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and routine health checks you need.
- • Cervical cancer screening and prevention
- • STI prevention, testing, and treatment
- • Pelvic health and gynecological care
- • Health checks and screenings you should have
Post-Abortion Care
Compassionate, judgment-free information about post-abortion care. Whether you need medical support, emotional care, or just information, we're here to help.
- • What post-abortion care is and why it matters
- • Medical care and managing complications
- • Emotional and counseling support
- • Contraception after abortion
Maternal Health & Pregnancy
Information to support healthy pregnancies and safe childbirth. From planning pregnancy to postnatal care, we cover what you need to know.
- • Preparing for pregnancy and prenatal care
- • Pregnancy health and nutrition
- • Safe childbirth options and labor support
- • Postnatal health and recovery
Sexual Health & Safety
Information about healthy, consensual relationships and protecting yourself. Sexual health is part of overall well-being.
- • Consent and healthy relationships
- • Protecting yourself from STIs and pregnancy
- • Sexual pleasure and satisfaction
- • Resources for sexual violence survivors
Gender-Based Violence Prevention & Support
Information and resources for anyone experiencing or at risk of gender-based violence. You are not alone, and help is available.
- • Understanding gender-based violence
- • Safety planning and protection
- • Reporting and accessing justice
- • Healing and support services
Frequently Asked Questions
What is contraception and how does it work?
Contraception (also called birth control) is any method used to prevent pregnancy. Different methods work in different ways—some prevent sperm from reaching an egg, others prevent ovulation, and some prevent a fertilized egg from implanting. No method is 100% effective, but when used correctly, most methods are highly effective. Talk to a health worker about which method might work best for your body and lifestyle.
Is it safe to use contraception?
Yes. Modern contraceptive methods have been thoroughly tested and are safe for most people. However, different methods work differently for different people. Some methods have side effects that bother some women more than others. The best method is the one that works for you and your health. A health worker can help you understand your options and any potential risks based on your health history.
Where can I access contraception in my area?
In Nkhotakota and Thyolo districts, contraception is available through government health clinics, health centers, and hospitals. Many methods are free or low-cost. The Shire Valley Kalondolondo Programme can help connect you to services in your area. Contact us for information about the nearest clinic and what methods are available.
What is post-abortion care?
Post-abortion care (PAC) is medical and emotional support provided after an abortion. It includes treatment for any complications, pain management, counseling, and information about contraception to prevent unintended pregnancy in the future. PAC is a critical health service that saves lives and supports women's recovery and well-being. Our program advocates for quality PAC services and can help connect you to care.
What should I expect during pregnancy?
Pregnancy brings physical and emotional changes. Regular prenatal care helps monitor your health and your baby's development, identifies any complications early, and prepares you for labor and birth. You should have regular check-ups, ultrasounds, and tests. Your health worker can explain what to expect at each stage and answer your questions. Good nutrition, rest, and emotional support are also important during pregnancy.
How do I know if I have an STI?
Some STIs have symptoms (like discharge, pain, or sores), but many have no symptoms at all. The only way to know for sure is to get tested. Testing is simple, confidential, and available at health clinics. If you're sexually active, regular testing is an important part of taking care of your health. If you test positive, treatment is available and effective for most STIs.
What should I do if I'm experiencing gender-based violence?
You are not alone, and it is not your fault. Help is available. You can reach out to a trusted person (family member, friend, health worker, or community leader), contact local police or authorities, or seek support from organizations that help survivors. Your safety is the priority. If you're in immediate danger, go to a safe place. For confidential support and information about your options, contact the Shire Valley Kalondolondo Programme or a local women's rights organization.
Can I talk to someone confidentially about my health?
Yes. Health workers are bound by confidentiality rules and cannot share your health information without your permission (except in cases of immediate danger). You have the right to privacy and confidentiality in your health care. If you're uncomfortable with a particular provider, you can seek care from someone else. The Shire Valley Kalondolondo Programme also provides confidential support and can connect you to trustworthy health services.
Trusted Resources
For more detailed information, you can visit these trusted organizations and resources:
World Health Organization (WHO)
Sexual and reproductive health information and guidelines
Malawi Ministry of Health
National health policies and service information
Planned Parenthood
Comprehensive reproductive health information
Amnesty International
Women's rights and reproductive justice resources
Have questions about your reproductive health or women's rights? Our team is here to help with accurate information and support.
Contact Us for SupportUnderstanding and Advocating for Your Rights
Every woman and girl in Malawi has fundamental rights—to make decisions about her own body, to be treated with dignity, to participate in her community, and to live free from violence. Yet many women face barriers to knowing and exercising these rights.
Shire Valley Kalondolondo Programme provides clear, accessible information to help you understand your rights and take action. We believe that informed women are empowered women.
Legal Rights
Your rights under Malawi law, including inheritance, property, marriage, and protection from discrimination
Reproductive Rights & Bodily Autonomy
Your right to make decisions about your own body, fertility, and reproductive health without coercion
Economic & Social Rights
Your right to work, earn income, own property, and access education and healthcare
Freedom from Violence
Your right to live free from physical, sexual, emotional, and economic abuse—and where to seek help
Political Participation & Voice
Your right to participate in community decisions, vote, and have your voice heard in matters that affect you
If your rights have been violated or you need support, you are not alone.
Contact Shire Valley Kalondolondo Programme to learn about your options, connect with support services, or get involved in advocacy for change.
Contact Us for Support
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about reproductive health, women's rights, and how to access our services. If you don't find what you're looking for, please reach out to us directly.
What is sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR)?
Sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) means having the knowledge, information, and access to services needed to make informed decisions about your body, fertility, and sexual life. It includes access to contraception, maternal health care, safe abortion services, and freedom from discrimination and violence based on your sex or sexuality.
Why does reproductive health matter?
Reproductive health is essential to overall health and well-being. Access to quality reproductive health services and information helps women and girls avoid health complications, plan their families, stay in school, and build the futures they want. When women can make decisions about their own bodies and futures, entire communities benefit.
What contraceptive options are available in Nkhotakota and Thyolo?
Several contraceptive methods are available through health facilities in our districts, including oral contraceptives (birth control pills), injectable contraceptives, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and barrier methods like condoms. We encourage you to speak with a health provider about which method is right for you. Our program can help connect you with health services if you need information or access.
Is it safe to use contraception?
Yes. Modern contraceptive methods have been extensively studied and are safe for most women. A qualified health provider can discuss your medical history and help you choose a method that's right for you. Some methods have minimal side effects, while others may have temporary side effects that often improve over time. The benefits of preventing an unwanted pregnancy typically far outweigh any risks.
What is post-abortion care (PAC)?
Post-abortion care (PAC) is comprehensive medical and psychosocial support provided after an abortion. It includes treatment of any medical complications, pain management, contraceptive counseling, emotional support, and information about recovery. PAC is essential healthcare that saves lives and helps women recover safely and completely.
Who can access post-abortion care?
Post-abortion care is available to anyone who has had an abortion and needs medical or emotional support. You do not need to disclose how the abortion happened. Our program works with health facilities to ensure that quality, non-judgmental care is available. If you need PAC services, contact us or visit a health facility in your district.
Is post-abortion care confidential?
Yes. Your privacy and confidentiality are protected. Health providers are bound by professional codes of ethics to keep your information private. You can seek care without fear of judgment or disclosure of your personal information.
What should I do if I'm having complications after an abortion?
If you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, fever, or any other concerning symptoms after an abortion, seek medical care immediately. You can go to any health facility or call for emergency services. Do not wait or try to manage complications alone. Post-abortion care providers are trained to help and will not judge you. Contact our program if you need help accessing care.
What are women's rights?
Women's rights are human rights. They include the right to make decisions about your own body and future, the right to education and economic opportunity, freedom from violence and discrimination, the right to vote and participate in governance, and the right to health and safety. Every woman and girl deserves to have these rights respected.
What is gender-based violence and what can I do?
Gender-based violence includes physical abuse, sexual violence, emotional abuse, and economic control—typically perpetrated by intimate partners, family members, or community members. If you are experiencing violence, you are not alone and it is not your fault. Reach out to a trusted person, contact a health facility, or call local authorities. Our program can help connect you with support services available in your district.
Do I have the right to refuse marriage or a relationship?
Yes. You have the right to choose whether, when, and whom to marry. You also have the right to end a relationship or marriage if you choose. No one—not family members, community leaders, or anyone else—should force you into marriage or a relationship. If you're facing pressure, reach out to a trusted adult or contact our program for support and information about your rights.
What rights do I have regarding my reproductive health decisions?
You have the right to make decisions about your own reproductive health without coercion or interference. This includes the right to decide whether and when to have children, the right to access contraception and family planning services, the right to safe pregnancy and childbirth care, and the right to safe abortion services. Your body belongs to you, and these decisions are yours alone to make.
How do I access the program's services?
You can contact us by phone, through our Facebook page, or by visiting us in person in Nkhotakota or Thyolo district. Tell us what you need—whether health information, post-abortion care, women's rights support, or something else—and we'll help connect you with the right resources or services.
Is there a cost to access your services?
Our advocacy and information services are free. We work to ensure that community members in Nkhotakota and Thyolo can access information about their health and rights without barriers. Some services may involve referrals to health facilities that have their own fees; we can discuss options and help you understand what to expect.
What is advocacy and how does it help me?
Advocacy means working to change policies, practices, and attitudes to improve health and rights. We advocate for better access to reproductive health services, stronger protection of women's rights, and removal of barriers to care. This work benefits entire communities by improving services, changing laws, and creating a culture that respects women's health and rights.
Can the program help with development planning and monitoring?
Yes. We support communities and organizations with development planning, implementation, and monitoring. If your organization or community group is working on a project related to health, women's rights, or development, we can help you plan effectively, implement successfully, and measure your impact. Contact us to discuss your needs.
Does your program partner with other organizations?
Yes. We work with health facilities, community organizations, women's groups, and other stakeholders in Nkhotakota and Thyolo to advance sexual and reproductive health and rights. If your organization is interested in partnership or collaboration, we'd like to hear from you.
Can health providers partner with the program?
Yes. We work closely with health providers and health facilities to strengthen reproductive health services, post-abortion care, and women's rights protection. If you're a health provider interested in collaboration, training, or advocacy support, please contact us to discuss opportunities.
How can I support the program's work?
There are many ways to support our work: share information about reproductive health and women's rights in your community, participate in advocacy activities, refer people who need services, partner with us on projects, or provide feedback on how we can improve. Contact us to learn more about how you can be involved.
Who funds the Shire Valley Kalondolondo Programme?
We are supported by AmplifyChange, a funder committed to advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights through locally-led organizations in the Global South. This support enables us to do our work in Nkhotakota and Thyolo and contribute to the broader movement for SRHR in Malawi.
Didn't find your answer?
We're here to help. Reach out to us directly with your questions about reproductive health, women's rights, or our services. Our team will respond as soon as possible.
Call Us NowCommunity Tools & Downloads
Access practical resources to advance sexual and reproductive health and rights in your community. These tools are designed for community members, organizations, and health providers working in Nkhotakota and Thyolo districts.
Community Advocacy Guides
Step-by-step guides to help communities organize advocacy campaigns, engage local leaders, and push for change on reproductive health and women's rights issues.
- • How to organize a community meeting
- • Advocacy messaging toolkit
- • Engaging local leaders and decision-makers
Health Promotion Materials
Educational resources and fact sheets on key reproductive health topics, designed for community health workers and community members.
- • Contraception and family planning fact sheets
- • Reproductive health awareness posters
- • Health education handouts
Planning & Implementation Templates
Ready-to-use templates for organizations and communities planning and implementing SRHR programs and advocacy initiatives.
- • Program planning workbook
- • Activity timeline and budget template
- • Risk assessment and mitigation guide
Monitoring & Evaluation Tools
Systems and tools to help organizations track progress, measure impact, and improve their SRHR programs over time.
- • Indicator tracking spreadsheet
- • Data collection forms
- • Impact assessment guide
Post-Abortion Care Resources
Specialized resources for health providers, community health workers, and organizations supporting post-abortion care and reducing stigma.
- • PAC provider training materials
- • Community stigma-reduction guide
- • Referral pathway toolkit
Women's Rights & Gender Guides
Educational materials on women's rights, gender equality, and legal frameworks protecting women in Malawi.
- • Women's rights in Malawi guide
- • Gender equality resource kit
- • Legal literacy and support guide
How to Use These Tools
Download the Resource
Click the download button for the tool or guide you need. Resources are available in English and local languages where possible.
Review the Guide
Each resource includes instructions and context. Take time to understand how to adapt it to your community's specific situation.
Customize for Your Context
Adapt templates, messaging, and tools to reflect your community's needs, language, and local context. These are starting points, not rigid rules.
Share & Support Others
Share these resources with partner organizations, health providers, and community leaders. We're stronger when we work together.
Trusted External Resources
Need Help Using These Tools?
The Shire Valley Kalondolondo Programme is here to support your work. If you have questions about how to use these resources, need guidance adapting them for your community, or want to share your experiences using them, get in touch.