Birth Spacing

Birth Spacing is the downtime needed for a woman's body to rest between pregnancies. Healthcare providers advise a minimum of 18 months between each pregnancy to ensure the best health for mom and baby.

Pregnant woman with a toddler

Click the links below to watch these videos from the March of Dimes to understand the importance of allowing your body time to prepare for your next pregnancy.

 

How does birth spacing benefit mom?

  • Allows your body to heal and replace key nutrients

  • Decreases possible complications with future pregnancies

 

How does birth spacing benefit the family?

  • Allows time for money management and planning

  • Allows time for family bonding

 

How is birth spacing accomplished?

  • Explore birth control options

  • Create a family planning strategy

 

What are the risks of not birth spacing?

  • Premature birth (more than 3 weeks early)

  • Low birth weight

 

Talk to your healthcare provider about your family planning options

 

page updated 8-13-24