Delay 2nd baby, experts say

Contraception advised after childbirth to avoid unwanted pregnancies and reduce abortion risks

Senior family planning experts warned that a low awareness of contraception immediately following childbirth might undermine Chinese women's efforts to have a healthy second baby.

The optimal birth interval is two to three years, according to the World Health Organization. Shorter birth intervals are associated with adverse health impacts for the mother as well as for the baby, including greater risks of low birth weight and premature birth.