Doctors issue warning after spike in ‘freebirthing’
Doctors have warned of the risks of “freebirthing” – where a woman gives birth without the help of a medic or midwife.
Unassisted births, or “freebirths”, are thought to have been on the increase since the start of the Covid pandemic, when people may have been worried about attending hospitals and home births were suspended in many areas.
The practice is not illegal and women have the right to decline any care during their pregnancy and delivery. Some women hire a doula to support them during birth.
The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) said women should be supported to have the birth they choose, but “safety is paramount” and families need to be aware of the risks of going it alone.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) said it is in the early stages of collaboration with the Chief Midwifery Officer’s teams, the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) and the Department of Health to better understand professional concerns about freebirthing and what organisations may need to do.
Its statement on unassisted births supports women’s choice, but notes that “midwives are understandably concerned about women giving birth at home without assistance, as it brings with it increased risks to both the mother and baby”.
It also states that women need to be informed that a midwife may not be available to be sent out to their home during labour if they change their mind and wish to have help.
Source: The Independent, 8 February 2024