RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Unassisted childbirth: why mothers are leaving the system JF Journal of Medical Ethics JO J Med Ethics FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and Institute of Medical Ethics SP 817 OP 820 DO 10.1136/medethics-2012-101150 VO 40 IS 12 A1 Dannaway, Jasan A1 Dietz, Hans Peter YR 2014 UL http://jme.bmj.com/content/40/12/817.abstract AB Unassisted childbirth is a topical subject that has sparked ethical and legal debate. Although there are little data surrounding unassisted birthing practice, concerns over consent, procedural intervention and loss of the birthing experience may be driving women away from formal healthcare. The healthcare system needs to work toward understanding this practice and, perhaps with the support of legislation, address the concerns of mothers in order to ensure optimal childbirth outcomes.