An age-period-cohort analysis was performed to examine gender-specific changes in Swiss suicide rates over the period 1881-2000. Statistical analyses were based on log-linear models & data aggregated by 10-year age-intervals & 10-year period intervals. Similar age & period effects were found in men & women. The estimates of age-specific risk increase steadily with age with intermediate plateaus in the 20s & the 50s. The period-specific estimates follow the economic cycles. Birth cohort effects are stronger in males & weaker in females. It is concluded a better understanding of birth cohort effects might open new doors in suicide prevention. (57 refs.)