An inquest is underway examining the tragic death of seven-day-old Poppy Hope Lomas, who died following a planned home birth. The hearing at Barnet Coroner Court has uncovered concerning details about the care provided to her mother, Gemma Lomas.

Details of the Home Birth

Gemma Lomas recounted a harrowing experience, stating that her newborn was placed on her chest “in a blue and floppy state” by a midwife who simply said, “There is your baby.” The family had chosen a planned home delivery with the Edgware Midwives team, believing it to be a safe option.

Oxygen Deprivation and Brain Damage

Medical experts at University College Hospital later determined that Poppy Lomas had suffered oxygen deprivation for approximately seven to eight minutes during labor. This resulted in severe brain damage that ultimately led to her death.

Concerns Over Risk Assessment

A key issue raised during the inquest is whether Gemma Lomas was adequately informed about the risks associated with a vaginal birth after a cesarean (VBAC) in a home setting. She testified that Alice Boardman, the head midwife, strongly encouraged the home birth despite her previous C-section.

Downplayed Warnings and Guidelines

Gemma Lomas stated she felt misled, describing the mandatory consultation with the team’s obstetrician as a “tick-box exercise” rather than a thorough risk assessment. Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists guidelines recommend high-risk births, like VBAC, occur in specialized hospital units.

Lack of Urgency and Dismissed Concerns

Testimony also revealed a perceived lack of urgency from the midwives when the labor became critical. Gemma Lomas reported experiencing significant pain near her previous surgical scar, a potential sign of uterine rupture.

Pain Dismissed During Labor

She alleges that staff dismissed her pain and continued to press monitoring equipment firmly against her abdomen despite her protests. The family emphasizes the emotional trauma of losing a healthy baby and the violation of their home.

Ongoing Inquest

The inquest, led by senior coroner Andrew Walker, continues as the family seeks answers regarding the professional failures that contributed to their daughter’s tragic death.