People Are Debating Whether or Not "Free Birth" Is Safe After a Baby Died During Labor

Although having an unassisted birth doesn't necessarily break any laws, it's still important for women to consult their doctors before considering a free birth.

Most physicians don't recommend that women have even a home birth — which means that free births are generally off the table, especially for soon-to-be moms with hypertension or those who have a child who's in a breech position.

"That's the tricky thing about obstetrics — we have two patients, the expectant mother and her unborn fetus," said Dr. Tobah. "There are times when the medical community as a whole, specifically obstetricians and midwives, can do a better job in educating patients on what to expect and how things might change."