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Researchers predict a baby boom next year: Here's why

The COVID-19 pandemic was supposed to lead to a baby boom. Instead, birth rates dropped in 2020, but experts say there's a sign that trend will change next year.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Experts were certain we'd see a baby boom during the COVID-19 pandemic, but birth rates were actually down in 2020. Now, there are some early signs that the baby boom we were expecting could actually happen next year. 

Are we ready for a baby boom in 2022? All signs point to yes. 

Let's connect the dots. 

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PREGNANCY TEST SALES ARE UP

Analysts at Bank of America say there's one telltale sign to expect more babies next year: Pregnancy test sales are going way up. 

They say sales have grown by an average of 13% year over year since 2020. 

MORE BABIES ARE BEING BORN

And more babies are already being born. Researchers say births increased by 3% this June. That may not sound like a lot, but it's the highest level of growth we've seen since 2013. 

MILLENNIAL BABY BOOM

Analysts are now predicting that this is the start of a "millennial baby boom." Members of that generation are getting older and gaining more financial security

For many, that means it's time to start a family. 

On top of that, many parents-to-be delayed having a baby due to the pandemic. With COVID-19 cases dropping and vaccines widely available, they're finally ready to welcome those bundles of joy. 

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