Polokwane mom delivers 4.8kg baby boy naturally at home

POLOKWANE – It was a proud moment for first-time mom Shonisani Miswe (31) when she welcomed her son, Kgetho Kgosi Miswe, into the world on June 30.

But what made the birth truly remarkable wasn’t just the new arrival – it was the baby’s impressive weight of 4.8kg, delivered naturally at a home birthing unit.

Midwife Corner Scheepers, who oversaw the birth alongside an experienced doula, said in her more than 20 years of practice, this was a first.

“We knew he was going to be big, I estimated around 4.3kg this morning and even hoped I was wrong,” she laughed.

“But despite the size, the birth went smoothly without major complications. In a hospital setting, a caesarean might have been the go-to.”

Scheepers said special techniques were used during labour to adjust birthing positions and assist in lowering the baby safely. Thanks to the careful planning and natural birthing support, everything went according to plan.

Shonisani, who had a healthy, complication-free pregnancy, said she chose the home birthing route for a more personal, connected experience.

“The later stages of pregnancy were challenging with round ligament pain, but I stayed active. Giving birth to such a big baby naturally has taught me to trust my body, it’s truly capable of amazing things.”

Still overwhelmed but filled with joy, she says she and her partner chose the name Kgetho Kgosi, meaning ‘the chosen king’.

“We’re so excited for all the firsts, and all the moments to come,” she said, smiling down at her healthy baby boy.