The British documentary “Outlaw Births” will be airing in the UK tomorrow (July 9th) on Channel 5 at 9pm. The film deals with unassisted childbirth (also known as "UC," "unassisted homebirth," and "freebirth"). I was interviewed along with nine pregnant women who were all planning on giving birth at home, unassisted. I'm pleased to say that all nine succeeded! The film focuses primarily on three women, Clio, Clair and Heather. Footage from all of their births will be shown.
An article about the documentary was published today in the British newspaper The Independent. The article features lovely photos from Clio's recent UC! In the months to come, the documentary may be shown in other countries. I'll be sure to post information on this as soon as I get more details.
Concerning the title, the term “outlaw” refers to the fact that women who choose this route often feel ostracized by friends, family and society. While the UK laws are vague, technically it is not illegal for a woman there to have an unassisted birth.
5 comments:
Loved the programme. As a UK resident having had 2 out of 3 births being home assisted. I realised that my experience could have been even more beautiful and empowering. Well done.
hi i would like you to know i saw your program outlaw births and i thought it was wonderful i never knew birth could be such an enjoyable experiece. i am expecting my first in jan 09 and i would like a home birth with no intervention when i discussed my feelings with my midwife she said not a chance. after watching your program it has given me the courage to fight for the birth i want and feel comfortable with so thankyou x x x
I too watched this programme, and although I personally wouldn't opt for UC, I feel that it is every woman's right to choose how to give birth.
Wish they would show this in Canada. Expecting #4 any day now and already have 3 lovely, perfect girls all born Freebirth-style. Perfectly alert, eyes open looking around within minutes of being born. I will continue to have UC's and strongly encourage you to fight for your right to birth however you want to.
Best of luck with your birth, Farm Wife!
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