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Methods of birth spacing, maternal lactation and post partum abstinence in relation to traditional African culture.


 The importance of birth spacing and the role playedby maternal lactation in achieving proper birth spacing in many traditional cultures in Africa are discussed. The concept of adequate birth intervals, i.e. 2 or more years, has been well accepted in many countries of Africa. Only very intensive, so-called "natural" lactation will cause the important reduction in fecundability necessary to achieve this spacing naturally. When the mother has no confidence in her ability to nurse and begins to to supplement the breast-feedings, lactation will become difficult and the contraceptive effect will be reduced. Studies from several cultures are cited as to the effect of natural lactation on the duration of postpartum amenorrhea. African cultures teach the symbiotic relationship between mother and child. This cultural concept has extended the natural contraceptive effect of lactation by prescribing various acceptable periods of abstinence. Rapid change in values in these societies has overthrown certain customs. Less severe practice of postpartum abstinence, use of supplementary bottle feeding, and complete avoidance of lactation in certain areas has undermined the contraceptive effect of lactation. Health education in these areas should stress the beneficial aspects, both to mother and child, of lactation. Supplementary contraception should also be mentioned.
