Overview

• The Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust and other NHS trusts are advising against freebirthing, highlighting the potential risks and emphasizing informed decision-making.
• Freebirthing, or unassisted childbirth, has seen a rise since the onset of the Covid pandemic, driven by fears of hospital environments and the suspension of home births in several areas.
• Healthcare professionals are concerned about the increased dangers of freebirthing, especially for first-time mothers or those experiencing complications.
• The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the Royal College of Midwives are among the organizations cautioning against the practice, advocating for safety and informed decision-making.
• Several NHS trusts are reviewing their policies on unassisted births, advising women to seek hospital assistance if complications arise during an unassisted delivery.