Hamilton Inquest Finding

Hamilton Inquest Finding

The Family Planning Association (FPA) say confirmation from the Hamilton coroner into the death of Stacey Brindle that everything was done correctly can be of little comfort to those involved.

FPA Executive Director, Dr Gill Greer says the organisation again expresses its sympathy to the Brindle family about Stacey’s death 18 months ago.

“This tragedy has highlighted the very rare risks that could be involved with some oral contraceptives, even when the law and protocols are followed,” Dr Greer said.

The Hamilton District Coroner has found that Stacey died due to a pulmonary embolism following a deep vein thrombosis and that there was insufficient evidence to find that the oral contraceptive Estelle 35D was responsible, nor could the possibility be excluded.

Dr Greer said all medical practitioners have to make judgements every day about the delivery of medical services.

“They make assessments and proceed on that basis. And we must uphold the right to confidentiality for clients.

“It is our experience that when young people come to Family Planning they are seeking assistance related to their sexual and reproductive health. We do encourage young people to talk with their parents or whanau about their decisions, but for a variety of reasons, this does not always happen. It remains of paramount importance that young people – including those 16 and under – continue to have access to information and services that can help them manage their health.

“This tragedy highlights the tension between acknowledging the rights of young people to make their own decisions, and the desire of parents and society to protect them from today’s social realities. It also highlights the need for open and honest discussion about issues related to sexuality and health,” Dr Greer said.

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