You may have heard of home births, but free birthing, where there are no medical professionals present is a small, but increasing practice in Australia. 

So, why are some women turning away from traditional hospital births and medical intervention? 

Today, investigative reporter Charlotte King on the movement putting lives at risk.

She says free birthing is chosen by some women due to a deep distrust in the medical system and past experiences of birth trauma. 

Charlotte King says the lack of regulation and medical oversight in free birthing can lead to dangerous outcomes, as seen in several cases she investigated. 

She discusses the influence of online communities advocating for free birth and the role of unqualified birth workers in these scenarios. 

The episode underscores the urgent need for better support and informed choices for women in the birthing process.

Featured: 

Charlotte King, ABC Regional Investigations reporter

Key Topics:

• Free birthing
• Birth trauma
• Medical intervention in childbirth
• Women's rights in childbirth
• Maternity care services