In the News
Free birth, or unassisted birth, refers to giving birth without medical support – a trend that's become more popular recently. Though not recommended by medical professionals, some parents prefer it over traditional birthing settings, going through pregnancy and delivery without any medical assistance. They may have family, spouses or friends present during the birth and supporting them, but there is no trained health professional present during labor or birth, explained Tania Lopez, CNM, certified nurse-midwife at Pediatrix® OB Hospitalists of Texas. Free birth comes with risks. “Risks of giving birth without a trained professional or experienced person include not recognizing potential complications such as high blood pressure, risks for hemorrhage, prolonged labor difficulties and how the baby is tolerating labor,” said Lopez.
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