Knowledge and experience of modern contraception use among Maasai communities in Longido district: a qualitative study

Introduction Modern contraceptives play a crucial role in empowering women and couples to manage their fertility, achieve desired family size and promote optimal child spacing. Insufficient contraceptive use contributes to unplanned pregnancies, with adverse health and socioeconomic consequences, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This study therefore aimed to explore the knowledge and experience of modern contraceptive use within the Maasai communities by learning the facilitators and barriers to its use. Methods This was a phenomenological qualitative study conducted among the Maasai community in Longido district, Arusha, to explore the knowledge and experiences of using modern contraceptives. In-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted among women and men in the community. Audio recordings were transcribed verbatim, translated and analysed using a thematic approach. Results A total of 35 participants (23 females, 12 males) took part in 12 IDIs and 3 FGDs, revealing a varied understanding of modern contraceptive methods alongside the continued use of traditional methods. Experiences highlighted diverse motivations for using modern contraceptives, emphasising their importance despite concerns about side effects and misconceptions. Facilitators included healthcare workers, supportive partners, friends and self-initiatives, while barriers included resistance from partners and entrenched traditions. Conclusions These findings underscore the need for the development and implementation of inclusive, culturally tailored and community-specific educational programmes that aim to involve all segments of the community, with a particular focus on engaging men and the elderly. The goal is to address existing knowledge gaps, dispel misconceptions and emphasise the benefits of modern contraceptives.