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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
National
Melissa Davey Medical editor

Birthkeeper who allegedly ‘groomed’ pregnant women to fear hospital could face criminal charges

Australian wellness influencer Stacey Warnecke and her husband, Nathan Warnecke.
Australian wellness influencer Stacey Warnecke and her husband, Nathan Warnecke. Photograph: gofundme

A birthkeeper who allegedly “groomed” pregnant women to fear hospital could be referred to prosecutors to face potential criminal charges, a Victorian coroner has heard.

Stacey Warnecke died in September 2025 at Frankston hospital in Melbourne after giving birth at home and suffering a postpartum haemorrhage with birthkeeper Emily Lal by her side, having paid her $6,000 to support her throughout pregnancy.

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