Behavior change around healthy timing and spacing of pregnancy (HTSP) can not be scaled up or sustained without a supportive environment. In some cases, this requires not only policy change but also improved ability of institutions to implement new policies. Policy makers increasingly understand that clear health policies and guidelines are needed to set priorities and provide the basis for action.

Many national policies do not clearly link timing and spacing of pregnancies with reduced maternal and child mortality or morbidity. HTSP can significantly contribute to efforts to reduce maternal and child mortality and morbidity, but to ensure this happens, policies and guidelines must clearly spell out the role and benefits of increased access to to family planning and HTSP information and services in maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH) programs. 

This section of the Toolkit also includes advocacy materials, including briefs and presentations, that can be used to make the case for developing and implementing policies that support HTSP.

To access general family planning advocacy materials, please visit the Family Planning Advocacy Toolkit.

We would like to include examples of national policies and guidelines that incorporate HTSP in this Toolkit. Submit examples or share your comments by filling out the feedback form.