This booklet presents evidence which links the effects of unplanned pregnancies on the health of the mother and child. The first section identifies the causes of high mortality and morbidity rates among children. Teenage child-bearing, child-bearing past the age of 35, family size and birth intervals are discussed. The second section presents evidence of numerous and serious health risks to mothers whose pregnancies occur too early in life, too close together, or too often. The hazzards of illegal abortion and the benefits of contraception are indicated. Women are advised to (1) postpone the first pregnancy until they are past the age of 20, (2) plan for a gap of 2 and one half to 4 years between subsequent pregnancies, (3) bear no children after the age of 36, and (4) limit family size. Information and service needs of teenagers, young and older women are indicated. Data from developed and developing countries are included in both sections of the booklet. (Author/RH)