This summer, the Jämtland region raised alarms after a child died and another was severely injured during home births conducted without a midwife. Now, the Värmland region has reported two cases in the past year where individuals sought hospital care due to serious complications following birth outside the healthcare system. These incidents highlight the potential risks associated with such births without the necessary medical supervision.

Eva Nordlund from the Midwives’ Association emphasizes that there are inherent risks when a pregnant woman is left to manage a birth on her own without professional guidance. She notes that unexpected situations can arise that a pregnant woman may not recognize, necessitating the advice and intervention of trained professionals. The ability of midwives to detect and act upon complications during labor is crucial to ensure the safety of both the mother and child.

Additionally, Hanna Åmark from the Swedish Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology points out that while complications and fatalities can occur in hospitals as well, the absence of medical oversight in home births poses significant dangers. The tragic outcomes underscore the necessity for a reevaluation of policies surrounding home births, as the presence of trained staff is crucial to minimize risks during delivery and ensure the wellbeing of both mother and child.