Close proximity pregnancies, also known as closely spaced pregnancies, are pregnancies that occur within a short duration of time. These pregnancies may pose a risk to the health of the child and the mother.

In this article, we will explore the risks to the child associated with close proximity pregnancies.

What is a Close Proximity Pregnancy?

A close proximity pregnancy is defined as a pregnancy that occurs within 18 months of the previous pregnancy. It is also known as a closely spaced pregnancy.

A woman who becomes pregnant within this time frame is said to have a “short interpregnancy interval.”.

The Risks of Close Proximity Pregnancies

There are several risks associated with close proximity pregnancies. The risks can be categorised into two major categories: maternal risks and infant risks. The maternal risks include:.

Uterine rupture
Placental abruption
Postpartum haemorrhage
Preterm birth
Low birth weight
Maternal anaemia
Maternal death

The infant risks include:.

Low birth weight
Preterm delivery
Small for gestational age
Neonatal death
Autism
Cerebral palsy
Respiratory distress syndrome

Low Birth Weight

Low birth weight is one of the main risks associated with close proximity pregnancies. Infants born with a low birth weight are at a higher risk of developing health problems later in life. They are also at a higher risk of mortality.

Low birth weight infants weigh less than 2.5 kilograms at birth. These infants may have difficulty breathing, feeding, and maintaining their body temperature.

Preterm Delivery

Preterm delivery is another risk associated with close proximity pregnancies. Infants born before 37 weeks of gestation are considered preterm.

Preterm infants are at a higher risk of developing complications such as respiratory distress syndrome, feeding problems, and neurological problems.

Small for Gestational Age

Infants born small for gestational age are smaller than expected for their gestational age. They may have delayed growth and development.

These infants are at a higher risk of developing chronic health problems later in life such as diabetes and heart disease.

Neonatal Death

Neonatal death is the death of an infant within the first 28 days of life. Infants born from close proximity pregnancies are at a higher risk of neonatal death. The risk of neonatal death increases as the interpregnancy interval decreases.

Autism and Cerebral Palsy

Studies have shown that infants born from close proximity pregnancies are at a higher risk of developing autism and cerebral palsy.

These conditions are neurological disorders that can affect a child’s ability to communicate, learn, and interact with others.

Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Respiratory distress syndrome is a condition that affects premature infants. Infants born before 37 weeks of gestation may not have fully developed lungs, which can lead to respiratory distress syndrome.

This condition can cause breathing difficulties, low oxygen levels, and other complications.

Conclusion

Close proximity pregnancies may pose a risk to the health of the child.

The risks associated with close proximity pregnancies include low birth weight, preterm delivery, small for gestational age, neonatal death, autism, cerebral palsy, and respiratory distress syndrome. It is important for women to space their pregnancies to reduce the risk of these complications.