Planning for Your Next Pregnancy

Having children with ages farther together

Having children with ages closer together

Before getting pregnant again, couples should consider practical aspects such as financial status, wellbeing, and each other's preferences.

While some couples believe in letting nature take its course, others may prefer to plan the timing of their subsequent pregnancies. Whatever your inclination may be, remember that what works for someone else may not necessarily be the best choice for you. Your circumstances are unique and should be taken into consideration.

Some practical aspects that you should consider carefully before getting pregnant again include your financial status, your emotional and physical wellbeing and your partner’s preference.

The Department of General Obstetrics & Gynaecology, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH), a member of the SingHealth group, says that “There is no absolute right or wrong in your decision. There are both pros and cons in spacing your children closer together or farther apart” .

Having children with ages farther together

Advantages

By the time your next child is due, the earlier one is old enough to do certain things on his or her own, relieving you of much stress.
You can focus your time on one child before having another.
You can have some recovery time before going through another pregnancy. Your body needs to replenish its store of nutrients (e.g., calcium and iron stores).

Disadvantages

It may be difficult to attend to the different needs of a younger and an older child at the same time.
Your children may not share similar interests because of their age difference and may have difficulty playing together.
The older child may feel that he or she has lost your attention and love to the younger one.

Having children with ages closer together

Advantages

You can focus on the similar needs of your children at the same time.
You spend less years bringing up your children.
Children who are closer in age share similar interests and are often great playmates.

Disadvantages

You need to put in more energy in providing special care to more than one child during their early and crucial years.

"The New Art and Science of Pregnancy and Childbirth", a pregnancy book by KK Women's and Children's Hospital (KKH), a member of the SingHealth group.

Read on to learn about contraception options after pregnancy.

Ref: S13