Health

Coroner's report causing undue worry for breastfeeding mothers - doctor

08:53 am on 15 August 2019

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A doctor in Palmerston North wants a coroner to retract comments she made that breastfeeding mothers shouldn't drink alcohol.

Last week coroner Debra Bell said it was likely that a two-year-old had died from her mother's alcohol use and subsequent breastfeeding.

The coroner's report said the exact cause of the toddler's death was uncertain, but breastfeeding mothers should avoid alcohol.

Palmerston North obstetrics and gynaecology registrar Doctor Heather Johnston says that's not true - and she started a petition about it. She spoke to Susie Ferguson.