Baby New Year

The original Baby New Year was born in ancient Greece. According to Britannica.com, it was reportedly customary to display an infant in a basket for the turn of the calendar. By the 1400s, the baby was depicted by the Germans as a religious figure and as a sign of rebirth. By the late 19th century, the pint-sized image of time’s passage began to appear in newspaper cartoons and year-end editorials. The beloved, well-known, chubby, top-hat, sash and diaper wearing version of baby New Year graduated from the cartoons and moved to the cover of the Saturday Evening Post in 1906 and is now a holiday staple.

Although we tend to make a big deal over the first baby born in the New Year, we, who deliver babies throughout the year, know that the excitement, anticipation and celebration for each family is virtually the same as any other day. Portneuf Medical Center celebrated the birth of 1,454 babies in 2015.

Our expectant mothers and infants are cared for by highly trained and compassionate labor and delivery nurses, many whom have over 20 years of experience, top–notch OB/GYNs and midwifes, and pediatric specialist who can provide the most advanced medical information. Our neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) combines advanced technology and trained health care professionals who provide tailored care for specific needs. The NICU is staffed with board-certified neonatologists, who are pediatricians who have gone through additional years of training, as well as neonatal nurses, respiratory therapists, pharmacists, dieticians, occupational, physical and speech therapists, and a social worker.

Whether you are a first time parent or adding another little bundle to your family, we know that parents-to-be have many questions. We, at Portneuf Women and Children Center, understand the joy and excitement as well as the various anxieties that often accompany pregnancy and childbirth. One of the most important decisions expectant parents make during pregnancy is where to celebrate the birth of their child. Whether a mom delivers ‘naturally’ or needs assistance, giving birth in a full-service hospital provides the optimum in safety and comfort for both mom and baby. If you are expecting, expect the best. If you would like to schedule an appointment, call the Pocatello Women’s Health Clinic at 208-232-6100.