In the sixth episode of The Birth Keepers, a year-long investigation by Guardian journalists Sirin Kale and Lucy Osborne, the focus shifts to the mounting backlash against FBS (Free Birth Society) and the escalating crisis surrounding unregulated birth practices. The podcast, originally published on 10 December 2025, delves into the growing concerns from medical professionals, former members, and families affected by FBS's ideology.
Backlash Against FBS Intensifies
The episode opens with accounts of increasing criticism from obstetricians, midwives, and public health officials who warn that FBS promotes dangerous practices that have led to preventable deaths and injuries. According to Kale and Osborne, at least 12 infant deaths have been linked to FBS-associated births since 2020, a statistic that has fueled calls for regulation. One former FBS member, speaking anonymously, said: "I was brainwashed into believing that medical intervention was unnatural, but after my friend lost her baby, I realized the cost of that ideology."
Emilee and Yolande Respond to the Crisis
The podcast features responses from FBS leaders Emilee and Yolande, who defend their organization's philosophy of "free birth"—giving birth without medical supervision. They argue that the backlash is fueled by a patriarchal medical system that seeks to control women's bodies. However, critics point to evidence that FBS has discouraged followers from seeking emergency care, even in life-threatening situations. The episode includes a recording of a private FBS meeting where Emilee states: "We are not responsible for the choices women make. We only provide information."
Impact on Families and Communities
The investigation highlights personal stories of families who have been affected by FBS practices. One father describes how his partner nearly died from a postpartum hemorrhage after being advised by FBS to avoid hospital transfer. "They told her that bleeding was normal and that she should trust her body. She lost half her blood volume before I called an ambulance against her wishes," he said. The episode also examines the psychological toll on former followers who struggle with guilt and trauma after leaving the group.
Calls for Regulation and Support
As the crisis unfolds, health authorities in Australia and the UK have issued warnings about FBS, and some states are considering legislation to regulate unlicensed birth attendants. The podcast notes that FBS operates in a legal gray area, exploiting loopholes that exempt "spiritual" or "educational" birth support from medical oversight. According to the Australian College of Midwives, at least 50 complaints have been filed against FBS-affiliated practitioners in the past two years, but few have led to prosecutions.
The episode concludes with a call for better support for women seeking alternative birth experiences without compromising safety. As Kale and Osborne report, the growing backlash against FBS reflects a broader debate about bodily autonomy, medical authority, and the need for informed choice in childbirth.
