[The influence of lunar phases on the frequency of deliveries].

Abstract

Common tradition encourages the belief that deliveries take place more frequently during some phases than others. It is known that multiple factors (also medical) may influence birth timing postponing or anticipating it. To verify the veracity of this belief, we studied the frequency of home deliveries of Maputo (Mozambique), without any medical assistance according to lunar cycle. A study of 5226 births in 37 lunar cycles didn't show a significative increase of deliveries during specific lunar phases and week days. The same result has been achieved expanding the examination period to 2 days before and after lunar phase. Therefore, on the basis of this study, the hypothesis that lunar phase may influence the process of birth is disproved.