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Premature weaning in East Bhutan: only if mother is pregnant again

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  31 July 2008

Erik Bohler  and
Staffan Bergström
Erik Bohler
Affiliation:
Department of Paediatrics and Ullevål Hospital, Oslo, Norway
Staffan Bergström
Affiliation:
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ullevål Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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Summary

The relationship between breast-feeding and subsequent pregnancy in East Bhutan is examined, against the background of local attitudes to family planning. Ninety-eight mothers who had given birth 30–36 months earlier were interviewed. Semisolid supplementary feeding was introduced at a median age of 3 months. Median total duration of breast-feeding was 28 months, and day and night breast-feeding on demand was continued throughout. Median duration of postpartum amenorrhoea was 12 months, and was associated with the timing of the introduction of supplementary foods.

There was a significant association between the occurrence of a subsequent pregnancy and early termination of breast-feeding. The relationships between breast-feeding pattern and pregnancy interval are complex, and their relative influence changes with time. During the first year postpartum, infertility during lactational amenorrhoea is important. During the second year there is a strong negative effect on lactation from the next pregnancy. The only important reason for ceasing to breast-feed within 2 years seems to be a new pregnancy.

Type
Research Article
Information
Journal of Biosocial Science , Volume 27 , Issue 3 , July 1995 , pp. 253 - 265
Copyright
Copyright © 1995, Cambridge University Press

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