The Philippines Has A Policy Against Home Births. It's Not Playing Well In A Pandemic

Marissa Tuping, a rural midwife, and Risa Calibuso, right, arrive in Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Hospital on July 21. Calibuso gave birth to her son moments later.

The "No Home Birth" policy was created to reduce maternal and newborn mortality rates. But critics say it makes giving birth expensive and complicated — especially during the coronavirus crisis.

(Image credit: Xyza Cruz Bacani For NPR)

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