Having a baby without medical intervention? While some births occur before professionals arrive, others choose ‘freebirth’ by declining antenatal care and monitoring. Sarah Schmid explores how to make self-directed birth a positive experience and addresses key questions about taking responsibility for pregnancy and birth. She offers guidance on improving health during pregnancy, determining the baby’s position, assessing the baby’s well-being without a heartbeat monitor, and managing complications like stalled labor, cord issues, or meconium in amniotic fluid. Schmid also discusses the feasibility of freebirth after a caesarean or with a breech baby, and what to do in the event of a premature birth. This book provides essential medical knowledge and dispels myths about birth, making it beneficial for women considering conventional settings and for birth professionals. Included are illustrations, personal stories from over 30 mothers about their experiences with planned and unplanned freebirths, and practical tips for the early days with a newborn. Readers are encouraged to trust their instincts and ask questions about their birth experience. Ultimately, the book emphasizes that birth is a natural part of life that doesn’t require constant oversight.
