The Birth Keepers: I choose this – episode one

The Guardian's investigative series "The Birth Keepers: I choose this" explores the controversial free birthing movement, which encourages pregnant women to exit the medical system and take control of their births. In the first episode, the story focuses on Nicole Garrison, who believes the ideology of the Free Birth Society (FBS) nearly cost her her life. The series examines the rise of the free birthing movement, which promotes the idea that women can reclaim their power by birthing outside of the medical system. However, the investigation delves into the potential risks and consequences of this approach, as exemplified by Nicole Garrison's experience. The article sets the stage for a year-long investigation by Guardian journalists Sirin Kale and Lucy Osborne, who will further explore the complex and often-debated issue of free birthing. The series aims to provide a balanced and in-depth look at this topic, shedding light on the perspectives and experiences of both supporters and critics of the free birthing movement.