What is an autopsy and when is it required?
Consent to full and partial autopsy
Getting the results
Testing the placenta
Tests for the mother
Paperwork
What is an autopsy and when is it required?
You may be asked if you want your baby to have an autopsy or a post mortem examination. This is a surgical procedure carried out by a skilled pathologist, involving a series of tests and a closer physical look at your baby's body. In a full post mortem, the baby's internal organs will need to be examined but the incisions are made in a way that your baby will not be disfigured and the incisions will be stitched closed afterwards.
An autopsy is done in the hope of finding some answers, particularly if the cause of death is not readily evident. Be aware that a post mortem may not be capable of finding a definite cause of death. There are many babies that die without a cause being identified. An autopsy is legally required if the circumstances of the baby's death come under the jurisdiction of the Coroner's Court.
This happens if: