Is a long period between the marriage contract (aqd) and consummation (dukhla) reprehensible in Islamic law?

Marrying a minor is not disliked, as the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, married Aisha when she was six years old and consummated the marriage with her when she was nine years old. A suitor may hasten the marriage contract for fear that the woman or her family might change their minds, and there is no harm in this, according to Sharia. Nevertheless, it is preferable for the contract to be at the time of consummation or close to it, if possible, to avoid potential problems such as divorce or death.