Freebirth, Natural Birth, Hospital Birth… Why Are Opinions So Strong Today?

Understanding why modern childbirth conversations feel more divided than ever

Childbirth is one of the most universal human experiences — yet in recent years, discussions about it have become increasingly polarising. Whether it’s debates about natural versus medicated labour, home birth versus hospital birth, or the rise of “freebirth” (unassisted birth without medical professionals), opinions can be surprisingly strong.

Why is this happening? And how can we bring the conversation back to what matters most — safe, respectful, positive experiences for mothers and babies?

Dr Tan Eng Loy explores the key reasons behind today’s “birth divide.”

1. Birth Is No Longer Just a Medical Event

For many mothers, childbirth carries layers of meaning beyond the physical process. It’s tied to:

• autonomy

• personal identity

• expectations for motherhood

• cultural values

• past experiences

Because birth represents so much, disagreements often reflect deeper beliefs rather than just differences in preference.

2. Past Experiences Influence Present Fears

Some women, or people close to them, may have had experiences where they felt:

• unheard

• rushed

• pressured

• confused about what was happening

• uncertain about options

Even though maternity care has improved significantly over the decades, negative stories circulate widely and can shape perceptions of hospitals and interventions. These experiences may push some to seek alternative approaches, including home birth or unassisted birth.

3. Social Media Amplifies Extreme Narratives

Online platforms are designed to reward emotional content. As a result:

• powerful birth stories spread rapidly

• extreme viewpoints gain more visibility

• balanced, nuanced explanations receive less engagement

What people see online may not reflect the full picture, but repeated exposure can make polarising views feel more common than they actually are.

4. The Appeal of “Natural” in Wellness Culture

Wellness trends often promote the idea that the most “natural” option is always the healthiest. Many mothers prefer a calm, unmedicated birth — and for many, this can be a meaningful and positive experience.

But “natural” does not mean “risk-free.” Even in low-risk pregnancies, certain problems can appear suddenly, without early warning. A few examples include:

• Postpartum haemorrhage (heavy bleeding after birth)

Bleeding can become severe very quickly and may require medication or procedures to control.

• Shoulder dystocia (baby’s shoulders get stuck during delivery)

This happens unexpectedly at the final stage of labour and needs specific manoeuvres to free the baby safely.

• Fetal distress (baby not getting enough oxygen)

A baby’s heartbeat can drop suddenly, and timely intervention protects the baby’s well-being.

• Cord prolapse (umbilical cord comes out before the baby)

Rare but serious — the cord can be compressed, affecting the baby’s oxygen supply. Swift medical help is critical.

• Infections or high fever in labour

Labour can occasionally trigger infections that progress quickly and require antibiotics and close monitoring.

• Placental issues (placenta not delivering fully)

If parts of the placenta remain inside, they can cause heavy bleeding or infection and need to be removed safely.

These events can’t always be predicted. That’s why having trained support and access to medical care — even during a low-intervention or natural birth — provides an important safety net for both mother and baby.

5. The Desire for Control and Autonomy

Many mothers who prefer natural or low-intervention births — including freebirth — are seeking:

• a sense of control

• continuity of care

• an environment that feels calm and respectful

• reassurance that their choices are valued

This desire is valid and important. When mothers feel supported and well-informed, they are more likely to have positive birth experiences, regardless of where or how they give birth.

6. Expectations Are Healthy — But They Should Be Flexible

It is completely normal and empowering for women to have expectations for their birth. Birth plans help mothers feel prepared, informed, and involved in decision-making.

But expectations should remain reasonable and flexible. When expectations become too rigid — or when they lead mothers to reject evidence-based safety measures or adopt unconventional practices — the focus can drift away from what keeps both mother and baby safe.

Many women also set very high expectations for themselves. When labour doesn’t follow the plan, some feel disappointed or even view it as a personal failure, even though they have done absolutely nothing wrong.

It’s helpful to remember:

• Birth plans are guides, not strict rules.

• Flexibility allows safer decisions when situations change.

• A change in direction does not mean “failing.”

• Your effort and strength are not defined by how closely the birth follows a script.

Birth is not a race, a test, or a competition. There is no “right” or “wrong” way to give birth. What matters most — and what lasts far beyond the day itself — is that both mother and baby are safe and well.

7. Why It Feels Like “Sides” Are Forming

Online discussions often frame birth choices as opposing camps:

• natural vs medicated

• home vs hospital

• freebirth vs medical support

But in reality, most mothers simply want:

• respect

• clear communication

• shared decision-making

• safety for themselves and their baby

These goals are compatible across many birth settings. The tension often comes not from the choices themselves, but from how strongly people feel about them.

8. The Path Forward: Respect, Communication, and Balance

Childbirth doesn’t need to be viewed as a competition between philosophies. A positive birth experience can come from:

• understanding the mother’s preferences

• providing evidence-based, compassionate care

• supporting physiological labour where safe

• being prepared for complications

• maintaining open, respectful communication

Birth is deeply personal. When we focus on listening, supporting, and informing, we create a space where women feel empowered — rather than pressured — in their choices.

Conclusion

The rise of strong opinions around childbirth reflects deeper themes of identity, autonomy, and trust. By recognising these influences and fostering open, balanced conversations, we can help mothers navigate their options without fear or judgement.

Every birth journey is unique. And every mother deserves to feel safe, supported, and respected — no matter how she chooses to welcome her baby.

At our clinic, Dr Tan believes in this approach strongly — open communication, shared decision-making, and respecting each mother’s preferences are central to the way he supports women throughout pregnancy and birth.