Child Spacing
What is "child spacing"? Spacing the birth of children within a family takes thoughtful consideration. It includes deciding how many children you want, the type of birth control method you wish to use, and the goals you and your partner share.
If possible, it's best to space your pregnancies 18 to 24 months apart.
Why is it important? Having a baby within one year of the birth of another baby puts a physical strain on the mother. There are more miscarriages, premature births, and low birth weight babies when babies are closely spaced. The mother's health is affected during this time. Her vitamin and iron reserves are low, and it takes time for them to rise to a more normal level.
Child Spacing/Pregnancy Planning: Helpful Links
- Folic Acid (Indiana State Department of Health Program)
- Indiana Family Health Council
- March of Dimes: Before You're Pregnant
- Planned Parenthood of Indiana Services
