Georgia woman convicted of unlicensed midwifery after near-fatal birth, allegedly waited 5 hours to call 911 as the mother lost half her blood

A Cherokee County jury has found 64-year-old Cynthia “Cindy” Rene Morrow guilty on nine criminal counts over a 2022 home birth in Woodstock, Georgia, which reportedly left a mother fighting for her life.

According to reports from the Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office and trial coverage by Hoodline, the trial lasted nine days. Prosecutors argued that Morrow ran an unauthorized midwifery business, Birth Servant Midwifery LLC, despite not holding a license as a physician, nurse, or certified nurse midwife.

One of the central incidents involved a home delivery during which the mother reportedly suffered severe postpartum bleeding. Evidence presented in court, as reported by Morning Honey, indicated that Morrow waited about five hours before calling 911, despite the mother’s worsening condition.

Investigators uncover medical supplies and expired drugs at her home

When she eventually called, Morrow reportedly requested non-emergency medical transport rather than telling dispatchers that the woman needed urgent medical attention. By the time paramedics arrived, the mother had reportedly lost around half her blood volume and was in hypovolemic shock.

According to trial evidence, paramedics found the woman in critical condition. Her blood pressure was recorded at 63/35, while her heart rate had reached 139 beats per minute. She was reportedly vomiting and had lost consciousness. Hospital staff then performed emergency surgery and administered multiple blood transfusions.

Medical experts who testified during the trial said an earlier call to emergency services could have prevented the mother from reaching such a dangerous condition. The case has also drawn attention to the oversight of people offering midwifery services outside the traditional healthcare system, particularly when families may not know what qualifications their birth attendant should hold.

The investigation also uncovered evidence relating to Morrow’s treatment of other patients. According to trial reporting by HeadTopics, investigators found evidence of potentially unauthorized medical practices, including IV supplies, catheters, needles, and expired prescription drugs such as Pitocin, in her possession.

Prosecutors argued that the midwife lacked the necessary medical authorization

Prosecutors argued that Morrow possessed and administered labor-inducing medication without the necessary medical authorization or supervision. After about three hours of deliberation, jurors found her guilty on all nine counts. The charges included practicing medicine and nursing without a license, unlawful midwifery, reckless conduct, and possession of a dangerous drug.

The case highlights the importance of checking the qualifications of anyone providing medical care, particularly during childbirth. Families considering a home birth or alternative birth plan may want to verify a provider’s credentials and licensing before making arrangements.