Midwife Under Investigation for Continuing Home Births Despite Prohibition in Sweden

A Swedish midwife, Agneta Bergenheim, is currently under investigation for continuing to assist in home births despite a formal prohibition by the Swedish Health and Social Care Inspectorate (Ivo).

The case originated after Bergenheim conducted a high-risk twin home birth that, although reportedly successful, prompted doctors at a hospital to file a complaint with Ivo. Following the complaint, the agency launched a review that uncovered serious concerns regarding patient safety, inadequate record-keeping, and the administration of medications without proper medical orders. As a result, Ivo prohibited Bergenheim from conducting further home births in the fall of 2025.

Despite the prohibition, Bergenheim has openly continued her practice of assisting home births, leading Ivo to file a criminal report against her for violating patient safety laws. Police have questioned the midwife about her practices and documentation, and Bergenheim is scheduled to meet with a prosecutor to discuss the ongoing investigation. She defends her actions by citing her extensive experience and asserts that the twin birth went well.

This incident has reignited the debate around home births in Sweden, which remains a contentious issue divided between advocates who support expanding home birth options and those who warn of the associated risks. Ivo is also conducting broader inspections of home birth providers nationwide, reviewing 18 other companies with a final report expected by March 2026.

The investigation reflects increasing scrutiny of home birth safety standards in Sweden, highlighting regulatory challenges and patient safety concerns surrounding such deliveries. Bergenheim's case underscores the delicate balance between respecting professional expertise and enforcing legal standards designed to protect mothers and newborns in potentially high-risk home birth scenarios.