| caption: |
Chapter Three. Phases of Life |
| caption: |
beliefs concerning impregnation and abortion |
| text: |
The basic facts of the sexual functions were known to the Konyaks, and it was recognized that a single act of sexual intercourse was sufficient to cause conception. There was a widespread belief, however, that a child in the womb would be weak and unhealthy if it was not reinforced by repeated copulation. Contraceptive devices or practices were unknown, and the people of some villages and particularly those of Wakching were emphatic in their condemnation of attempts to bring on abortion. |
