Vida reproductiva en los andes: el ciclo reproductivo femenino: Estudios fisiologicos, epidemiologicos y demograficos

Abstract

The present study has been designed to assess in populations living at high altitude, the reproductive pattern, the hormone profile during the menstrual cycle and pregnancy, and the markers of the reproductive life such as menarche and menopause, and to analyze in basis. of novel statistical methods, which variables are associated to probability to have menarche and menopause. Global Fecundity Rate was higher in women living at altitudes (4.9 children per woman) than at sea level (2.1 children per woman). Controlling for use of contraceptives, women from altitude still have more children than at sea level. Interval, between births were lower in populations living at altitudes (29.2 months) than at sea level (39.9 months). Controlling for use of contraceptives, interval, between births were still low at altitude. Median age at first birth was 21 years at altitude and 21.5 years at the coast. At altitude, 20% of women were using modern contraceptives, and at sea level 47.4% use them. Neonatal mortality was most frequent at high altitude (39 per thousand) than at sea level (18). Infant mortality was also higher at high altitude (80 per thousand) than at sea level (30 per thousand). Median of lenght of maternal breastfeeding was longer at high altitude (2.1 months) than at sea level (0.5 months).