Portugal's birth rate soars to decade-high as 2026 nears another record

Portugal has seen a sharp rise in births, with 2025 marking the highest number in a decade. Over 89,000 babies were born last year, and early figures for 2026 suggest another record-breaking year. The increase reflects a growing trend in several key districts across the country. In the first three months of 2026, the districts of Lisbon, Porto, Setúbal, and Braga reported the most births. Lisbon’s Alfredo da Costa Maternity Hospital led the way, recording 3,920 deliveries in 2025 alone—the highest in the capital. The same hospital also stands out as the top public facility for twin births.

At Hospital dos Lusíadas, monthly deliveries have remained consistently high, with over 300 babies born there each month. Health authorities also noted a rise in newborn screenings, with more than 21,800 heel-prick tests conducted in early 2026. This figure represents an increase of around 1,000 compared to the same period in 2025. The upward trend has led experts to predict that 2026 will surpass last year’s record, continuing Portugal’s recent growth in birth rates.

The steady increase in births has placed greater demand on maternity services, particularly in major urban centres. With hospitals like Alfredo da Costa and Hospital dos Lusíadas handling high volumes, health officials are monitoring the situation closely. If current patterns hold, 2026 will likely become the busiest year for newborns in over a decade.