Pregnancy and childbirth are life-changing experiences, but what happens when the line between support and medical care blurs? A growing debate is sparking controversy in the world of maternity care.
Leading medical organizations are pushing for stricter regulations against doulas, or unregistered birth workers, who provide clinical services during 'freebirths'—deliveries without registered healthcare professionals present. The call comes after a series of tragic incidents, including the recent death of Melbourne-based nutrition influencer Stacey Hatfield, who suffered a severe postpartum hemorrhage following a freebirth. Her son survived, but her story has reignited the debate over the boundaries of doula practice.
But here's where it gets controversial: Should doulas face fines or even criminal charges for stepping into roles traditionally reserved for trained medical professionals? The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) and the Australian College of Midwives argue yes. They’ve urged federal, state, and territory governments to adopt South Australia’s Health Practitioner Regulation Law, which bans doulas from performing 19 clinical actions. In South Australia, violating these restrictions can result in fines of up to $30,000 or a year in jail.
And this is the part most people miss: While doulas are valued for providing emotional and physical support during childbirth, some have allegedly overstepped their scope, performing tasks like monitoring fetal heart rates or managing labor stages—roles typically reserved for midwives or obstetricians. Dr. Nisha Khot, RANZCOG’s president, warns that freebirths attended by unqualified workers undermine decades of progress in reducing maternal mortality. “Freebirth is a dangerous step backward,” she says, emphasizing the need for national laws to protect mothers and babies.
Dr. Zoe Bradfield, president of the College of Midwives, acknowledges women’s right to autonomy in childbirth but stresses the importance of harmonized national legislation. “This isn’t about restricting choices,” she explains, “but ensuring transparency, safety, and accountability for all women, no matter where they give birth in Australia.”
Here’s the question that’s dividing opinions: Is this a necessary safeguard for maternal health, or does it infringe on women’s rights to choose their birthing experience? Some argue that doulas fill a critical gap in emotional support, while others fear unregulated practices could lead to more tragedies. What do you think? Should doulas face stricter regulations, or is this an overreach that limits birthing options? Let’s keep the conversation going—share your thoughts in the comments below.
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