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Healthy Timing and Spacing of Pregnancy:
HTSP Messages

To achieve HTSP outcomes, three take-home messages have been developed all to be discussed in a framework of informed family planning choice, personal reproductive health goals and fertility intention.

For couples who desire a next pregnancy after a live birth, the messages are:

For the health of the mother and the baby,* wait at least 24 months, but not more than 5 years,†before trying to become pregnant again.

Consider using a family planning method of your choice during that time.


For couples who decide to have a child after a miscarriage or abortion, the messages are:

For the health of the mother and the baby, wait at least six months before trying to become pregnant again.

Consider using a family planning method of your choice during that time.

For adolescents, the messages are:

For your health and your baby’s health, wait until you are at least 18 years of age, before trying to become pregnant.

Consider using a family planning method of your choice until you are 18 years old.


*This message encompasses perinatal, neonatal, and infant health and can be adapted to the context
for example postpartum programs would emphasize perinatal, neonatal and maternal health.

†Some technical experts at the 2005 WHO technical consultation felt it was important to note that in
birth-to pregnancy intervals of five years or more, there is evidence of increased risk of adverse maternal
outcome, namely pre-eclampsia, and adverse perinatal outcomes, namely pre-term birth, low birth weight
and small infant size for gestational age.

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

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