A post-mortem will usually provide the most information if it is carried out within a few days of a baby’s death. If you need to hold the funeral within 24 or 48 hours, tell the staff at the hospital as they may be able to arrange a post-mortem within this time. Sometimes, babies need to be transported to specialist centres in other hospitals where post-mortems can take place.
Once you have consented to have a post-mortem examination, you can change your mind and withdraw consent. It is best to ask the hospital how much time you have to do this.