The Physiology of Marriage.

vi, [7]-259, [1] pp. 12mo bound in sixes. Brown blind-stamped cloth, gilt titles & rules. Hoolihan 42. In reference to original edition, Hoolihan states: "Alcott devotes himself in this frequently reprinted work to the social and moral, as well as the physical consideration of the relations of men and women in marriage. Alcott provides admonitions on 'premature marriage'... the importance of an early understanding of reproductive physiology; the dangers in courtship of the 'prurient and ungovernable passions and appetites' of young males upon the 'citadel of female character'... the deleterious effects of 'premature sexual indulgences,' i.e. fornication and masturbation; 'the physical laws of marriage'... pregnancy... abortion; contraception (coitus interruptus, rhythm method, abstinence); sexual behavior during lactation; venereal disease; and two concluding chapters on the laws of hygiene."