New data shows the pandemic has created a "baby bust" as the national birth rate has plummeted. But that's not the case here in Pittsburgh.
The number of births in the U.S. fell by 4% last year, according to the CDC - the largest drop since 1973. But here in Pittsburgh, we're bucking that trend.
UPMC has seen an increase of up to 5% in deliveries at Magee Women's Hospital.
What's behind it? Dr. Richard Beigi says it could be the pandemic. A lot of Pittsburgh's parents-to-be apparently 'got cozy' at home during the pandemic and chose to start or grow their families.
"Not 100% clear to us to be honest, but we're really happy to be in the position we are because we love taking care of these women and we just love having babies," said Beigi.
He calls it a "modest baby boom" that's likely to keep up for another few months at least.
"We are running busier. We're doing many things to accommodate these women, so that we can continue to maintain our high patient experience."
UPMC also recently loosened restrictions, allowing up to 2 visitors now in the delivery room.