Today in Focus

Exposed: the business linked to baby deaths across the world – The Latest

9 snips
Dec 12, 2025
Lucy Osborne, a Guardian special correspondent and investigative reporter, discusses her year-long investigation into the Free Birth Society and its alarming consequences. She reveals how the group promotes dangerous birthing practices through social media, often targeting women with past medical trauma. Osborne highlights the shocking statistic of 48 linked cases, including 18 potentially avoidable deaths. The conversation delves into the organization’s monetization strategies and the emotional challenges faced while interviewing affected families.
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INSIGHT

Misinformation Drove Real Harm

  • The Free Birth Society spread misleading and sometimes dangerous information about pregnancy and birth.
  • Reporters discovered far more real-world harm linked to the organisation than they expected.
INSIGHT

Free Birth Defined And Radicalised

  • Free birth means giving birth alone with no medical professionals or prenatal tests.
  • The Free Birth Society promoted an even more extreme stance, rejecting ultrasounds and routine checks.
ANECDOTE

Instagram Lured Women With Inspiring Stories

  • Many women first sought positive birth stories online and then encountered the Free Birth Society through Instagram.
  • The account's slick, inspiring content acted as an entry point that concealed radical medical advice.
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