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ABC News Daily
The rise of the freebirth movement
Nov 24, 2024
Charlotte King, an investigative reporter for ABC, dives deep into the rising freebirth movement in Australia. As women opt for unassisted childbirth amid distrust in medical institutions, King unpacks the motivations behind this trend, from traumatic hospital experiences to the influence of online communities. She shares cautionary tales, like Alice’s harrowing journey after a freebirth, shedding light on the associated risks and the vital need for accessible midwifery care. The conversation raises important questions about maternal safety and autonomy.
15:09
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Quick takeaways
- The rise of the freebirth movement in Australia reflects a growing distrust in the medical system and personal traumatic experiences associated with hospital births.
- Increasing reports of emergency hospital transfers during free births highlight significant safety concerns due to the absence of qualified medical support and oversight.
Deep dives
Rise of Free Births and Their Risks
Free birth, or birthing without any medical professionals present, is an increasingly popular choice for some women in Australia. While only a small percentage of births occur this way, reports indicate that the number of planned free births leading to hospital transfers has dramatically increased, highlighting the potential risks involved. There were 39 reported cases in 2022, up from 14 the previous year, showing a troubling trend as these births lack regulation and monitoring from the health system. The absence of qualified medical support during these births raises significant safety concerns, especially as they can lead to emergency situations that require immediate intervention.
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