Sounds Like A Cult The Cult of Free Birthers
Nov 5, 2024
Hehe Stewart, a doula and childbirth educator, dives into the controversial free birthing movement. She discusses the cult-like aspects of free birthing, where individuals opt for unassisted childbirth amid systemic healthcare issues. The conversation highlights the clash between traditional medical practices and the empowerment found in free birth choices. Misinformation and safety concerns are scrutinized, revealing the dangers that can arise from this movement. With a blend of humor and empathy, Hehe encourages informed decision-making in maternal healthcare.
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Rise of Unassisted Childbirth
- Unassisted childbirth gained popularity in the early 2000s, influenced by the documentary "The Business of Being Born."
- This documentary highlighted the profit-driven medical establishment's approach to childbirth.
Diverse Motivations for Free Birth
- Not all free birthers share the same reasons for choosing unassisted childbirth.
- Some prioritize safety, others dislike power imbalances in healthcare, and others emphasize self-protection.
Cult-like Aspects of Free Birthing
- The cult-like aspects of free birthing arise from the conflict between traditional healthcare and extreme free birthing.
- Mistrust in the medical establishment, due to rising maternal mortality rates, fuels interest in alternatives.