Overview
- Coroner Catherine Fitzgerald concluded that the baby’s death would probably have been avoided with hospital delivery or a planned home birth attended by a midwife.
- Forensic pathologist Yeliena Baber’s examination revealed fetal membrane infection, meconium aspiration and bacteria in the lungs, indicating hours of distress in the birthing pool.
- The mother had only one antenatal visit at 36 weeks and declined ultrasound and blood tests, trusting a self-organized “team” instead of medical oversight.
- The birthing pool was rented through influencer Emily Lal’s Instagram page, and Lal’s FaceTime assessment led to an emergency call after signs of newborn distress.
- Fitzgerald recommended that the Department of Health update its online resources with Safer Care Victoria’s water birth guidelines to address gaps in aquatic birth safety.