In September 2025, Melbourne wellness influencer Stacey Warnecke chose to give birth at home without any medical assistance. Only her husband and Emily Lal, a self-described 'birth keeper', were present during labour. Warnecke later died in hospital.
What Is a 'Birth Keeper'?
Lal had no formal medical training and completed an online course from the Free Birth Society, a multimillion-dollar business that trains unregulated birth support workers. The society promotes freebirth, or medically unassisted childbirth, which is gaining popularity among a growing number of women.
Coroner Investigates Freebirth Trend
Therese McCarthy, the coroner, is probing why women choose freebirth and non-medically trained supporters. The inquest aims to uncover the factors behind this trend and the risks involved. According to medical editor Melissa Davey and investigations correspondent Sirin Kale, the case raises critical questions about safety and regulation.
Warnecke's death is a stark example of the potential dangers. The Free Birth Society, which markets itself as empowering women to reclaim birth, faces scrutiny over its training and influence.
