Pregnancy Spacing

Pregnancy spacing is an important part of family planning. It can affect more than how close your children are in age. Research shows that spacing pregnancies too close together can pose health risks for both you and your baby. It is important to have time to recover your energy and replenish your body's resources before you have another child, especially if you've recently had a cesarean birth. It is recommended to wait at least 18 to 24 months, after a live birth before attempting a subsequent pregnancy.

With each new child, you have to think and talk about your own health and education options, your finances, work, relationships, your other children and supports. Find out more about what you need to know about family planning and timing pregnancies from the links below.

• Mayo Clinic - Child spacing and family planning

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• Mayo Clinic - Pregnancy spacing after a pregnancy loss

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• KidsHealth by Nemours - Birth of a second child: what will change and helping your first child adjust

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• UpToDate - Article on interpregnancy interval and complications