Safer Care Victoria (SCV) and the Consultative Council on Obstetric and Paediatric Mortality and Morbidity (CCOPMM) have released a joint position statement on unattended or freebirths.
A freebirth is when a woman makes a conscious decision to give birth without the support of a registered health professional, such as a midwife or doctor registered with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
A freebirth differs from a planned homebirth, where a woman’s health and pregnancy have been assessed by trained AHPRA registered professionals, who use clinical evidence to guide their recommendations and care.
Birth attendants and doulas can provide valuable emotional and physical support during pregnancy and birth. However, they are not registered health professionals and are not trained to offer clinical advice or care, nor can they respond to medical emergencies if complications arise.
SCV and CCOPMM strongly encourage women and families to seek care from trained AHPRA registered professionals, who can provide medical support when needed, helping to ensure the safest possible outcomes for mother and baby.
For more information on maternity services and birthing in Victoria, see the Victorian Government's Having a baby guide or contact your nearest public or private maternity care provider.