Ipu Taonga
Ipu Taonga means "container or vessel for a treasure or precious item". These are used for parents to transport very early miscarried babies for burial at home. They can be made using exactly the same process as the Ipu Whenua only using smaller materials and bags.
Often a tiny miscarried fetus would be placed in a specimen pot or plastic cup and given to the parents who want to take it home, this can be upsetting for staff and patients. An Ipu Taonga shows respect for the lost life however early in the pregnancy the miscarriage may occur.
We are currently trying to encourage emergency departments to stock these, however they are not a readily available item. We would encourage anyone who wishes to support their use to make contact with your local emergency department and if appropriate, make and donate a small amount of these to your local hospital.
I can send out a sample to any departments who would like to view one. Contact me on the e-mail below.
By Carole Wheeler e-mail: [email protected]
Often a tiny miscarried fetus would be placed in a specimen pot or plastic cup and given to the parents who want to take it home, this can be upsetting for staff and patients. An Ipu Taonga shows respect for the lost life however early in the pregnancy the miscarriage may occur.
We are currently trying to encourage emergency departments to stock these, however they are not a readily available item. We would encourage anyone who wishes to support their use to make contact with your local emergency department and if appropriate, make and donate a small amount of these to your local hospital.
I can send out a sample to any departments who would like to view one. Contact me on the e-mail below.
By Carole Wheeler e-mail: [email protected]