To the Editor: Cunningham’s perspective1 provides a timely review of the literature relating to the maternal psychological outcomes of holding stillborn babies, which remains controversial. It is unfortunate that some popular media sources reported it incorrectly as saying that seeing and holding stillborn babies may cause harm.2 The correct conclusion is that the literature is inconclusive.
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- 1. Cunningham KA. Holding a stillborn baby: does the existing evidence help us provide guidance? Med J Aust 2012; 196: 558-560. <MJA full text>
- 2. Rudra N. Holding stillborn could be harmful. Canberra Times 2012; 21 May. http://www.canberratimes.com.au/act-news/holding-stillborn-could-be-harmful-20120520-1yz9v.html (accessed Aug 2012).
- 3. Flenady V, King J, Charles A, et al. Perinatal Society of Australia and New Zealand clinical practice guideline for perinatal mortality. 2nd ed, version 2.2. Brisbane: PSANZ, 2009. http://www.stillbirthalliance.org.au/guideline1.htm (accessed Aug 2012).
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