Influencers' Radical Birth Advice Sparks Tragedy

A new audio investigation, 'The Birth Keepers,' exposes the Free Birth Society (FBS), an online community led by influencers encouraging pregnant women worldwide to undertake unassisted births. The group advocated for childbirth without any medical professionals, relying solely on 'instinct.' This movement, fueled by uplifting narratives of 'wild' births, has been linked to at least 18 cases where mothers or birth attendants suffered devastating loss.

The year-long investigation, featured in a six-episode podcast series, highlights how women were heavily influenced by the FBS's advice, leading to potentially avoidable tragedies. Journalists Sirin Kale and Lucy Osborne investigate the profound real-world impact of misinformation spread through social media platforms, showcasing the courage of women who have spoken out to warn others.

'The Birth Keepers' emphasizes the global reach of such online communities and the severe repercussions of radical birth ideologies. The series, produced by The Guardian Investigates, underscores the importance of reliable information during pregnancy and childbirth, drawing attention to the devastating consequences when dangerous advice goes unchecked.