Intensely lactating mothers do not generally conceive due to the

Options

A. suppression of gonadotropins
B. hypersecretion of gonadotropins
C. suppression of gametic transport
D. suppression of fertilisation

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Lactation and Menstruation:**
- After childbirth, mothers enter a phase of intense lactation, during which they may not experience menstruation. This condition is known as lactational amenorrhea.

2. **Definition of Lactational Amenorrhea:**
- Lactational amenorrhea refers to the absence of menstruation during the period of intense breastfeeding that follows childbirth.

3. **Mechanism of Ovulation Suppression:**
- During lactation, the body produces high levels of the hormone prolactin, which is essential for milk production.

4. **Role of Prolactin:**
- Prolactin suppresses the secretion of gonadotropins, which are hormones produced by the pituitary gland. The two main gonadotropins are Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH).

5. **Function of FSH and LH:**
- FSH is responsible for the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles, while LH triggers ovulation. Without these hormones, ovulation cannot occur.

6. **Conclusion on Conception:**
- Since high levels of prolactin inhibit the secretion of FSH and LH, ovulation does not take place during intense lactation. As a result, the chances of conception are very low during this period.

7. **Duration of Effectiveness:**
- This natural method of birth control, known as lactational amenorrhea, is typically effective for up to six months after childbirth.