Things to Consider if You’re Due Around the Winter Holidays
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The Joy (and Complexity) of a Holiday Due Date
Welcoming a baby during the holiday season can be incredibly special — twinkle lights, cozy weather, and family nearby to celebrate. But for families giving birth in the Chico area, it’s also a time that comes with unique considerations.
Hospitals like Enloe Health’s Mother & Baby Care Center often see fluctuations in staffing and scheduling during November, December, and early January. While the care remains excellent, it’s important to plan ahead — especially when it comes to timing, provider availability, and postpartum recovery during a busy season.
Why Inductions May Increase Around the Holidays
Across the country — and locally here in Butte County — there’s often a small spike in scheduled inductions and cesarean births around major holidays. This can happen for a variety of reasons:
Some providers prefer predictable schedules during peak holiday travel times.
Families may want to coordinate births around visiting relatives.
Staff availability in hospitals can fluctuate.
At Enloe Hospital, Enloe Women’s Health, and Enloe Midwives, you’ll find that most providers work hard to ensure your birth is medically appropriate and patient-centered. Still, it’s perfectly reasonable to ask:
“Is my induction being recommended for a medical reason — or convenience?”
Open communication is key. You have every right to discuss the risks, benefits, and alternatives to scheduling birth early, especially if your pregnancy is healthy and low-risk.
How Your Doula Can Help
As doulas, we serve as consistent support in what can sometimes feel like a season of shifting plans. Whether you’re birthing at Enloe Health, with Enloe Midwives, or receiving prenatal care through Northern Valley Indian Health (NVIH) Women’s Health or Better Babies, your doula can:
Help you understand the pros and cons of induction.
Offer comfort techniques and emotional support if you do need an induction.
Remind you of your birth plan when things move quickly.
Hold space for calm and connection, no matter what day your baby decides to arrive.
Planning for the Unexpected
Winter births can bring additional logistical challenges, too.
Weather: Northern California roads can be slick or icy. Have a backup plan in case of unexpected travel delays, especially if you live in a rural area of Butte County, such as Magalia or Paradise, and the drive to Enloe Hospital is further away and could include driving through icy roads or snow.
Support people: Holiday plans mean family and friends might be away. Arrange postpartum help in advance (or consider hiring a postpartum doula).
Hospital registration: Complete Enloe’s pre-admission forms early and know where to park and enter after hours.
If you’re working with NVIH Better Babies, they can also help you prepare your postpartum support plan and connect you with resources such as WIC and lactation services.
Rest and Boundaries
It’s tempting to want to “do it all” around the holidays, even while pregnant. But your body needs rest and nourishment, not hustle. Doulas often encourage clients due around the holidays to simplify celebrations — smaller gatherings, flexible gift expectations, and lots of help with meals.
Remember: Your baby is the gift. Everything else can wait.
A Peaceful, Supported Holiday Birth
If you’re due this winter in Chico or the surrounding counties, start planning early. Ask your provider at Enloe Women’s Health or Enloe Midwives about their holiday call schedules, clarify your birth preferences, and reach out to a doula who can offer consistent support before, during, and after birth.
No matter when your baby arrives, your care team — including your doula — can help you welcome them with confidence, calm, and community.
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