Evidence, hints and assumptions for late pregnancy in the Ancient Mediterranean and Near East

Abstract

AbstractAncient women, who survived childhood mortality, received good and adequate nutrition, did not work hard and escaped death during childbirth could live fairly long lives. Girls started procreation after marriage, usually at 15 years, had on average seven children, childbearing lasted 14–21 or more years and could happen at the age of 35 or more years. Breastfeeding, usually with contraceptive effect, continued for 2–3 years. Limited actual facts, written evidence and findings, but several hints, assumptions and logical conclusions from secular texts, sacred books, narratives and myths suggest the possibility of late childbearing in the Mediterranean and Near‐Eastern ancient world, particularly for the Jews.