Free Birth Society Linked to 48 Tragic Stillbirths

An extensive investigation has uncovered a disturbing connection between the Free Birth Society (FBS) and 48 reported instances of late-term stillbirths or severe harm to mothers and newborns. While FBS is headquartered in North Carolina, its influence extends globally, offering membership and training for 'birth keepers' and promoting an ethos of unassisted childbirth.

This situation underscores the escalating risks associated with online health influencers, whose advice often bypasses established medical guidelines. Giving birth without professional medical assistance, though legal in some countries, is associated with increased dangers for both mother and child due to a significant lack of data. This issue is compounded by existing criticisms and documented failures within maternity care systems in countries like the UK and US.

The proliferation of misinformation, often amplified by social media algorithms that favor extreme content, poses a significant threat to evidence-based healthcare. Authorities and health organizations are urged to develop strategies to safeguard public health information and improve maternity services, ensuring women receive safe and informed care.