Health Risks of Quick Pregnancies After Childbirth

Question
i just had a scare at the doctors office about possibly being pregnant again. its been 5 weeks since i delivered and i was wondering what the health risks are of getting pregnant so quickly after having a baby? not the chances of getting pregnant, but the health risks associated with it, thanks!

Answer
The main concern with close pregnancies is the physical toll it takes on your body.  Depending on how well you ate and exercised during your last pregnancy, your nutritional stores may be depleted.  Since everything is sent to the baby first, this means that calcium for the baby's bones would be taken from your bones, protein from your muscle, etc.  This obviously puts a strain on your body, although generally there is not much effect on the baby.  These problems can be avoided by being extremely conscientious about diet and exercise during the second pregnancy, making extra sure to eat a fully balanced, well-rounded diet and take all your supplements, and staying active and strong.