Freebirth, also known as unassisted childbirth, has been linked to at least one maternal death and several other cases of harm. The Free Birth Society, founded by Emilee Saldaya, promotes a radical ideology that emphasizes women’s autonomy in childbirth but often ignores scientific evidence.
The society has exported its views to Australia through its Radical Birth Keeper School, which trains birth attendants with no medical qualifications. One of these attendants, Emily Lal, was personally trained by Saldaya and had no hesitation in providing services despite warnings from experts that her methods were inaccurate and dangerous.
Lal attended a 30-year-old nutritionist and wellness influencer, Stacey Warnecke, who died after giving birth due to complications from postpartum haemorrhage. An inquest heard that Lal did not provide Warnecke with adequate medical care, including refusing to call an ambulance despite Warnecke’s condition worsening.
This case is linked to at least 48 other cases of harm or death involving the Free Birth Society. The society’s ideology has led to a culture where women are encouraged to take risks in childbirth and ignore scientific evidence.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jun/30/freebirth-wellness-influencer-stacey-warnecke-death-ntwnfb