INFORMATION ON THE DECISION TO HAVE A POST MORTEM (AUTOPSY) CARRIED OUT ON YOUR BABY.

The Decision

The decision to have a Post Mortem carried out on a baby is the choice of parents. Sometimes family and friends attempt to make the decision for you to spare you some pain but the parents must decide.

In some cases it is compulsory to have a Post Mortem.

The decision to have a post Mortem is not usually regretted and may assist in the process of coming to terms with your tragedy.

What is it?

A Post Mortem (autopsy) is a surgical procedure performed to determine the cause of death.

A skilled pathologist will perform the procedure. Incisions are made in such a way as to prevent any disfigurement and all wounds are surgically repaired.

Your doctor will be available to explain the procedure to you in more detail, or answer any specific questions you may have.

Why have a Post Mortem?

It may assist in determining the cause of death of your baby.

It will allow for the status of hereditary genetic abnormalities to be determined.

If the Post Mortem reveals such abnormalities are present, appropriate genetic counselling and support can be arranged for future pregnancies.

Sometimes depending on the cause of death, a Post Mortem may be beneficial for current medical research.

It is also possible that even after a Post Mortem the cause of death is still not known, or questions you have will remain answered.

It is important you discuss these possibilities with your doctor.

When is it compulsory to have one?

Generally it is your decision as to whether a Post Mortem is done, however in the following circumstances the procedure is compulsory:

• A baby has died within 24 hours of surgery.
• A doctor cannot certify as to the cause of death.
• A baby has died suddenly.

If none of the above apply a Post Mortem can only be carried out with your permission.

You do have the right to request a Post Mortem if one is not offered.

Most benefit is gained by a full Post Mortem, however you may wish to discuss the option of a limited Post Mortem with your doctor.

What happens after the Post Mortem?

It is possible to see your baby after the Post Mortem.

It is also possible for you to hold your baby if you wish.

Contact your funeral director or a hospital Social Worker to assist in arranging this. They can also help in whatever counselling or support may be required.

Limited information about the baby’s internal organs should be available one to two days after procedure. More detailed results will not be available for a number of weeks.

It is recommended you meet with your doctor about 6 to 8 weeks after and baby’s death. This may coincide with the mother’s post natal appointment.

CRADLE Support Group

CRADLE NT is a voluntary self help support group for those who have experienced the death of a child through miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death, or any other tragedy.

The group holds monthly meetings with the opportunity for personal and group discussions.

The type of support received by families after the loss of their baby is of crucial importance for their subsequent psychological and physical health, their social adjustment and marital relationship.

The child will never be forgotten but we hope that with time and support everyone will be able to work out an acceptable “place” for the child in the continuing life of the family and to make sense, if there in any, of your great loss.

Support group meetings are held on the second Saturday of the month at the Darwin Private Hospital Boardroom at 10am.

Support and counselling can be arranged for people not in Darwin.

CRADLE NT INC

PHONE: 0438 272 353.