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  • Title: [Optimum timing of procreation and natural or controlled fertility].
    Author: Piasecki E.
    Journal: Studia Demogr; 1987; (88):63-77. PubMed ID: 12341900.
    Abstract:
    The relationship between birth weight, birth order and mother's age was ascertained using Polish statistics from 1979. Increased birth weight correlated positively with increasing age of mother and increasing birth order; however, this was the case only up to the 3rd birth in women up to age 34. In women age 35 and above, weights stayed nearly constant or increased through fourth, fifth and higher numbers of births. It was also found that the optimum interval between successive births is 3.3 years for optimum birth weight. Using older statistics, it was also found that infant mortality was lowest among children born 3 to 4 years after next oldest sibling. Among the main factors found to stimulate conception is shortening or reduction of lactation (replacement of mother's milk by other foods). Historically speaking, lower fertility rates have always been attributed to prolonged breast feeding of infants, a process inhibiting ovulation. An interesting phenomenon found in Poland, in contrast to other Western countries, lies in synchronization of the peak of effective fertility and peak of professional activity. This was attributed to cessation of breastfeeding after the 3 months' furlough accorded new mothers as state policy, and low rates of birth control usage.
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