Historical and medico-legal aspects of infanticide: An overview

Abstract

In practice, all cases of abandoned newborn deaths are reported to the police/coroner, who asks for a post-mortem examination because only this can establish the viability of the infant, proof of separate existence, and the cause and manner of death in such cases. The pathologist who conducts the autopsy will have to use his skills and experience to assess a wide variety of marks and injuries so as to give his opinion fairly and frankly, not allowing any personal feelings to influence his findings. In some cases, he may be unable to give a firm opinion and should not shirk from stating this clearly. This paper examines some historical, legal and pathological aspects of infanticide.