No Hospital Visit: Chennai Parents Use WhatsApp for Baby Delivery
A couple from Chennai recently conducted a home birth with guidance from a WhatsApp group, raising serious concerns among health authorities. The parents, Manoharan, an earthmover driver, and his wife Sukanya, delivered their baby at home, following advice and instructions from a WhatsApp group called “Home Birth Experiences.” Their decision has prompted an investigation by local police and health officials due to potential violations of medical safety regulations.
Risky Home Delivery with Online Guidance
Manoharan, 36, and Sukanya, 32, reside near Kundrathur in Nandambakkam. Already parents to two daughters aged 8 and 4, the couple made headlines after choosing to deliver their third child at home on November 17. Despite the risks associated with home delivery, Sukanya opted for no prenatal medical check-ups, and when she unexpectedly went into labour, Manoharan relied solely on instructions from the WhatsApp group.
Health authorities grew concerned when the couple shared a picture of the newborn online, which quickly gained public attention. In response, the area’s Public Health Officer filed a complaint with the Kundrathur police station, highlighting the dangers of such unassisted home deliveries.
WhatsApp Group's Role Under Scrutiny
During preliminary investigations, police discovered that the 1,024-member WhatsApp group frequently shared advice on home birthing practices. Manoharan’s decision to manage the birth alone appears to have been influenced by the group’s posts. Officers found that the content within this group included both advice and illustrations on conducting home deliveries, potentially misleading individuals without medical training.
Health Risks and Legal Consequences
Health officials, concerned about the potential risks of unverified online advice, explained the dangers of home birthing without medical supervision. They also emphasized that expecting parents should always prioritize professional medical support to ensure the safety of both mother and child.
Discussions between Kundrathur police and health department officials are underway to determine possible legal actions aimed at preventing unregulated guidance on sensitive medical procedures.
Source: Inputs from various media SourcesÂ
