"Have your babies close together!" "We're doing two under two!" "Three years apart is perfect!"
Social media is overflowing with opinions about pregnancy spacing! As someone who specializes in the postpartum time period, I want to share what the evidence actually tells us. This is not to make anyone feel guilty about their choices, but to help you make informed decisions that support your body and your growing family.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends at least 18 months between pregnancies, and here's why that matters from a whole-body perspective:
Your tissues need time to heal. From a musculoskeletal standpoint, the pelvic floor, abdominal wall, and connective tissues need 18-24 months for complete recovery and remodeling. Your body has done incredible work - it deserves adequate time to rebuild.
Your nutrient stores need replenishment. Even with a nutrient-dense diet and high-quality prenatal vitamins, it can take 12+ months to fully restore depleted nutrient reserves. Pregnancy is metabolically demanding, and your body prioritizes baby - which means it pulls from your stores first.
Cesarean births need extra consideration. If you've had a cesarean, that 18-month interval becomes even more important for proper tissue healing and to reduce the risk of complications like uterine rupture in subsequent pregnancies.
I understand that many families choose closer spacing for deeply personal reasons - whether it's getting through the baby years all at once, surprise pregnancies, or other life circumstances. If 18+ months isn't possible for you, I strongly recommend waiting at least 6 months and focusing intensively on your health during that time: nutrient-dense foods, appropriate strength training, and rebuilding your fitness foundation.
Your body will always give your baby what they need - but drawing from depleted stores is challenging for both of you. "Two under two" is sometimes worn as a badge of honor, and while I celebrate every family's unique journey, I also want you to know that prioritizing your postpartum recovery isn't selfish - it's essential.
If more children are in your future, postpartum is your opportunity to invest in your body's resilience.
Have questions? Need personalized guidance? Simply reply to this email! I'm currently accepting digital birth prep and coaching clients, and consultations are always complimentary.
Whether you are looking to rebuild in postpartum, wanting to prepare for a healthy pregnancy, or improve your general health- I am here for you. I have 2 openings for 1:1 coaching in February. If you want to learn more - fill out my coaching application.
With peace and love,
Dr. Ellyn Halley, DC, Doula, Coach
Doc Halley Solutions
Follow me on Instagram + TikTok for more content - ellynhalley.dc
In person chiropractic care! You can find me at 1500 Green Bay St, La Crosse WI 54601 within the same space as the Parenting Place and The Motus Project. I am excited to offer in person care to women in the Coulee Region, and offer hybrid care - in person + online. You can book your first appointment or schedule a consult below!
If you're looking for an "all in one" program that includes a prenatal exercise program, birth education, pelvic prep + mobility, nutrition information, and more - combined with regular support + check ins - I have you covered. Check out my Empowered Pregnancy program for incredible prenatal support.
Looking for more support around exercise, pelvic health, and nutrition (and birth prep if you're pregnant!)? Apply for 1:1 coaching with me:
Looking for a comprehensive birth education that covers more than birth? Join Meghan Tomlinson (Rooted Birth + Family) and I on Sunday, March 15th 2026 10a-3p in West Salem, WI at Coulee Health. Class includes a spot for you + a partner. Light snacks + refreshments provided. You will receive a workbook + 5 hours packed full of valuable information! Register here
I am looking for doulas or women who are ready to take their doula training to join my team! You can learn more here (you will have to request access to view this document).
**Disclaimer: The content in this email is not intended to be medical advice. The content here is for informational purposes only. Please consult with your healthcare provider regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options.
