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naomi james

Last year
2024
Why are women giving birth alone in Ireland - and across the world?
Inside the online freebirthing movement that’s gaining popularity worldwide.
The Journal speaks to women who have freebirthed in Ireland and beyond about their reasons for going outside of the medical system.
One woman who became immersed in exclusive, private online groups says leaving the extreme end of the freebirth movement felt like 'leaving a cult'.
Some in Ireland are freebirthing because they can't access HSE homebirthing services.
A Louth woman, Naomi James, who died after giving birth at home without a medic present, also participated in online groups, and freebirthing influencers.
Mother died in Drogheda after 'freebirth' at home with no midwife or doctor present
Hospital staff desperately tried to save Naomi’s life after she arrived in the hospital experiencing postpartum hemorrhage.
Naomi James suffered a postpartum hemorrhage after giving birth at home with no medic present.
The doula who was present for Naomi's labour told The Journal she was "a sensational woman and birthed her baby with incredible power."
Medical sources have expressed concern about 'freebirthing', but members of online support groups said birth trauma is forcing women to opt for freebirthing as a 'last resort'.