A rising number of pregnant women in the UK are choosing to give birth without medical assistance, influenced by narratives from the Free Birth Society (FBS). A recent investigation by The Guardian unveiled that this organization promotes unassisted births, a practice that some experts warn can lead to dangerous outcomes. The FBS, founded by former doula Emilee Saldaya, advocates for what it terms a “birth liberation movement,” suggesting that traditional medical care is a form of violence against women.
The FBS presents “free births” as a reclaiming of a sacred experience, actively discouraging prenatal care and dismissing potential complications. The organization’s messaging often includes claims that ultrasound scans can harm unborn babies, a notion that lacks scientific backing. Most individuals learn about the FBS through its popular podcast, Instagram account, or YouTube channel, which has garnered nearly 25 million views. Additionally, the FBS offers a video course titled “The Complete Guide to Freebirth,” co-created by Saldaya and fellow ex-doula Yolande Norris-Clarke, available on their website.
The Rise of Free Births in the UK
While free births remain relatively uncommon, they are on the rise. Data from the Nursing and Midwifery Council indicates an increasing trend, with several NHS trusts noting more women opting for unassisted births in 2023 and 2024. The percentage of home births in the UK, which includes free births, has risen from 2.1% in 2016-2019 to 2.5% in 2021, amounting to approximately 17,400 births. Furthermore, around 6% of inquiries received by the AIMS birth charity in 2023 were about free births, a significant increase from previous years.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also contributed to this shift. Many women, having experienced trauma or inadequate care during prior births, found themselves losing trust in professional maternity services. The suspension of home birth services during the pandemic further led some women to consider free births as a preferable option to hospital delivery.
Concerns Raised by Medical Professionals
The Guardian’s investigation identified 48 cases of serious complications, including late-term stillbirths and neonatal deaths, that may be linked to the FBS’s influence. In 18 of these cases, evidence indicated that the FBS significantly influenced the mother’s or birth attendant’s decision-making, potentially leading to avoidable tragedies. Experts reviewing the FBS material characterized it as “medically illiterate, misleading, or dangerous.”
One of the main concerns raised by obstetric experts is the rejection of antenatal care. This can prevent the detection of risk factors, such as twin pregnancies or breech presentations, which may lead to unforeseen complications during delivery. Hannah Dahlen, a professor of midwifery, emphasized the importance of trained professionals in managing emergencies, stating that doulas lack the necessary medical training and equipment.
A senior obstetrician, speaking to the BBC, expressed alarm over the growing trend of unassisted births, characterizing the practice as a regression to less medically supervised environments. In contrast, Saldaya has remained resolute in her defense of free birth. Following the publication of The Guardian’s findings, she took to Instagram to address her followers, claiming, “They will try to discredit you. They will lie about you. They will attempt to silence what they don’t understand.”
As the conversation surrounding unassisted births continues to evolve, the implications for maternal and infant health remain a critical concern for healthcare professionals and expectant mothers alike.
