[Reproductive behavior of ethnic groups from Antioquia, Colombia]

To identify the reproductive timing, intensity, and rhythm of the Embera, (Eyabida, Dobida, and Chamibida subgroups) and Zenues ethnic groups.

A sociodemographic study was conducted during 1996-1997 in Antioquia, Colombia, on a non-random population sample, stratified by ethnic group, to compare reproductive behaviors within and between these ethnic groups. Statistical analysis for independent samples was conducted using the software program Epi-Info. Analysis included the Student's t test for difference of means, and the chi-squared test for difference of proportions.

Reproductive behavior was characterized by ages at first intercourse of 14.5 and 15.8 years; the average interval before pregnancy was 1 to 1.3 years, followed by 48% to 73.3% of short-spaced intergenesic intervals. Reproductive stress was 50% during reproductive life, reaching an accelerated rhythm at 30-34 years of age, with a high fecundity ratio averaging 10.5 births, except for the better educated Chamibida that had 4 births on average.

Mainstream health policies directed at controlling birthrates are far from appropriate because they do not take into account the specific reproductive behaviors of these ethnic groups. The English version of this paper is available at: http://www.insp.mx/salud/index.html