Midwife Elizabeth Mphuti from Lenmed Private Hospital reflected on the unique joy of welcoming a baby born on a public holiday.

This year, Randfontein’s private hospitals recorded no births on either Christmas Day or New Year’s Day.

Elizabeth explained that hospitals generally see fewer patients on these days.

She added that holidays are not necessarily busier than normal days when it comes to deliveries. Shifts during these periods typically remain similar to regular days, although staff must still manage duty schedules while ensuring adequate ward coverage.

Despite this, Elizabeth said working as a midwife during the holidays is especially rewarding due to the festive atmosphere and excitement.

“We have a special tradition to celebrate babies born on holidays by singing and giving gifts,” she said.

Although staff members are often joyful, Elizabeth noted that parents do not usually react differently when their babies are born on a holiday. Instead, they simply focus on celebrating the arrival of their new family member.

When asked what advice she would give to parents whose babies are born on festive holidays, Elizabeth said they should make an effort to celebrate the child’s birthday just as much as the holiday itself.

“It really is exciting to deliver the first baby on Christmas or New Year’s Day. The staff always celebrate these births. Life is a precious gift,” she concluded.