Pandemic baby boom a bust as hospitals see birth rate decline

TUCSON, Ariz. (KOLD News 13) – The expected pandemic baby boom is looking more like a bust.

There was speculation we’d see a rise in babies born with more couples at home during COVID-19. It looks like the opposite has happened as national and state data shows a decline in birth rates.

Director of Midwifery Greta Gill said the uncertainty of COVID-19, fear of catching the virus during pregnancy and financial hardship may be to blame. She’s seeing a 10% birth rate decline in southern Arizona.

“I think that people are having fewer children and really planning,” she said.

Read more at kold.com