Inquest possible into Vic home birth death

The family of a baby girl who died during an unintentional Melbourne home birth wants a coronial investigation and recommendations that could prevent future deaths.

Celia Wood's daughter Martha Fraser died shortly after being born in a breech position on May 30, 2011.

Ms Wood and her partner Peter Fraser were aware of Martha's breech position but the Victorian Coroners Court heard on Tuesday that there were disputes about what breech position she was in.

Ms Wood believed she was in the early stages of labour about 10.15pm on May 30 and gave birth just over an hour later, unable to make it to hospital in time.

Lawyer Jessica Clark told the court the couple felt they weren't adequately advised about the risks of a vaginal delivery for a baby in a breech position, and were not in a position to make an informed decision about Martha's delivery.

The court heard there were discrepancies about Martha's cause of death as determined by Ms Wood's doctor and medical experts providing evidence to the coroner, while events leading up to Martha's delivery are also disputed by the parties.

Coroner Caitlin English warned that if the matter proceeded to an inquest both Ms Wood and Mr Fraser would be subject to "robust" questioning.

Ms Clark said they were aware of that, but wanted to go ahead.

"This is something the family feel very strongly about," she said.

The family is hoping for recommendations that could prevent similar deaths in future, she told the court.

Ms English said in light of the different views about the circumstances of Martha's birth, it was probable an inquest would be held.

She will make her decision at a later date.