Your Next Baby: Its Best to Wait

You have just had a baby. Should you try to get pregnant again right away or wait? Most doctors will tell you it is best to wait at least 18 months before getting pregnant again.

Pregnancy takes a lot out of a woman’s body. It uses up nutrients your body needs. After the baby is born, your body needs time to rebuild those nutrients.

Babies born too close together can make it hard for a mom to get enough rest. If you get pregnant again too soon, you may not be giving your body enough time to recover. Babies born to moms who get pregnant less than 6 months after giving birth have a much higher chance of being born early or underweight.

Talk to your doctor to plan your next pregnancy. Your doctor also can help you choose the best birth control. Don’t forget to have your postpartum exam. This is done 21 to 56 days after you have your baby. If you had a Csection, you also need to see your doctor 2 weeks after you have your baby.