The Free Birth Society’s practices have sparked outrage and concern as they are linked to preventable infant deaths worldwide.
Story Highlights
- The Free Birth Society, started in 2017, promotes births without medical intervention.
- Its teachings have been linked to preventable infant deaths and serious injuries.
- Critics accuse the group of spreading harmful misinformation and creating a cult-like environment.
- Despite backlash, founders continue to deny responsibility for negative outcomes.
Free Birth Society and its Controversial Practices
The Free Birth Society, founded by Emilee Saldaya and Yolande Norris-Clark in 2017, gained traction by advocating for “freebirth” — giving birth without medical professionals or interventions. This movement has attracted a global following, largely fueled by social media influencers. Despite its popularity, the society faces backlash as reports link its philosophy to preventable infant deaths and severe birth injuries.
Key events include the launch of their flagship product, “The Complete Guide to Freebirth,” which attracted over 10,000 women. However, between 2022 and 2025, critical articles and online backlash emerged, highlighting the dangers associated with the society’s ideology. Reports of negligence and misinformation have led to a public reckoning, as bereaved families and former members speak out.
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Monetization and Ideological Motivations
The Free Birth Society has monetized its ideology through online courses and coaching, cultivating a community that rejects all medical involvement. The movement’s rhetoric promotes a sisterhood and anti-establishment stance, which resonates with women seeking empowerment and autonomy. However, critics argue that this rhetoric obscures the real risks and exploits vulnerable women for profit.
Founders Emilee Saldaya and Yolande Norris-Clark have denied responsibility for any negative outcomes, attributing deaths to “natural” causes or medical negligence in hospitals. This denial further fuels public outrage as critics demand accountability and better regulation of health influencers.
Medical Community’s Response and Future Implications
Medical professionals overwhelmingly warn that unassisted birth carries significant risks, including preventable infant and maternal deaths. With growing awareness and media scrutiny, there are calls for regulatory responses and changes in how social media platforms handle health misinformation. The controversy has also sparked debates over birth autonomy versus medical safety, impacting maternal health discussions.
Influencers made millions pushing ‘wild’ births – now the Free Birth Society is linked to baby deaths around the world
This has to be one of the most shocking and disturbing pieces I've read in along time.
I am speechless. https://t.co/kOMo1K8q4E
— Ronke Lawal (@ronkelawal) November 23, 2025
As the Free Birth Society continues to operate, it faces reputational damage and declining trust among some followers. The ongoing debate emphasizes the importance of informed consent and access to emergency care, highlighting the need for oversight in online health education.
Sources:
Free Birth Society: Complete Guide to Freebirth (official course page)
The Free Press: Inside the Free Birth Society (Kara Kennedy, 2025)
Free Birth Society (official website)
