Cultural Norms and Practices of Birth Preparedness among Indigenous Maasai Women in Northern Tanzania: A Descriptive Qualitative Study

Background: Preventable maternal morbidities and mortalities due to pregnancy-related complications can arise at any stage in pregnancy, delivery, and after. Despite efforts to encourage women to give birth in healthcare facilities, improvement has remained stagnant, particularly in remote Indigenous Maasai populationsin northern Tanzania. The study aims to explore the cultural norms and birth preparedness practices among Indigenous Maasai women in Northern Tanzania. Methods : The study employed a descriptive qualitative study design, which was conducted from 11 April 2024 to 31 May 2024, among Indigenous Maasai women. In-depth interviews were conducted with 7 newly delivered Indigenous Maasai women, and three focus group discussions with 30 Indigenous Maasai elderly women. The thematic analysis with inductive approach was used to analyze the qualitative data. Results: The study findings identified five overarching themes and 16 sub-themes, shedding light on the prevalent adherence to cultural norms and traditional practices surrounding childbirth. The themes encompassed traditional preparation for childbirth, culturally rooted approaches to maternal well-being, ritualistic practices during pregnancy and delivery, the collaborative roles of husbands within the family, and cultural norms associated with newborn care. These themes highlight the intricate interplay between cultural traditions and maternal health practices in the study context. Conclusion : The study's findings reveal that Indigenous Maasai women in Tanzania adhere to traditional birth practices, which include the utilization of herbal medications and dietary modifications during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. Their husbands play a crucial role in determining the birth location and providing assistance during labor and delivery, with a preference for traditional birth assistants (TBAs). This preference for TBAs during care and delivery increases the risk of complications for both mothers and newborns. Therefore, the study's findings emphasize an urgent need for community health educational programs focused on creating awareness of the effects of traditional practices such as restriction of food intake during pregnancy and inadequate use of skilled birth attendants among the study population to enhance maternal well-being.