Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Jul 11: On World Population Day, experts have called for planning and spacing pregnancies for the well-being of both mother and baby.
They said the Healthy Timing and Spacing of Pregnancy (HTSP) stresses the importance of allowing sufficient time between pregnancies to ensure the best health outcomes.
Dr Barjasta Bahar, a gynaecologist at the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK), said that proper spacing allows a mother’s body to recover fully from the previous pregnancy, reducing the risk of complications like maternal anaemia, preeclampsia and uterine rupture.
“Babies born too soon after a sibling are at a higher risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and infant mortality. Conversely, appropriate spacing (18-24 months) improves neonatal outcomes and reduces risks like congenital disorders and developmental issues,” she said.
She added that teenage pregnancies often lead to complications, and healthy timing for pregnancy is crucial and beneficial for both mother and baby.
Dr Bahar said that longer intervals between births enable mothers to breastfeed longer, providing essential nutrients to the older child and reducing competition for resources with a new sibling.
Dr Rukhsana, another gynaecologist, said the space between two pregnancies has psychological advantages, as parents get time to take care of the first child well.
“Parents have more time to devote to each child, which can enhance emotional bonds and support the child’s cognitive and emotional development. Additionally, parents can better manage family resources, contributing to overall family well-being,” she said.
She added that pregnancy within six months of a previous birth can lead to complications such as placental abruption, schizophrenia and increased risk of autism in the subsequent child.
However, Dr Rukhsana was quick to add that conversely, waiting too long between pregnancies (more than five years) may also carry risks, including preeclampsia and other health complications for both mother and child.
Doctors said there should be a gap of around three years between two pregnancies to balance the risks and benefits. They said promoting HTSP involves comprehensive family planning services, including education on contraceptive options and fertility awareness, ensuring women and families can make informed choices about pregnancy timing based on their health and life circumstances.
