The moment you see your baby for the first time is beyond words. The emotion of months, sometimes years of waiting is impossible to quell. It’s the moment we become mothers.
For most women who give birth via c-section, the first glimpse of their baby is when their precious newborn is lifted over the blue or green drape separating the medical team and support crew. But many international hospitals are now using clear drapes so mums can watch their baby being born, and enjoy those first, emotion-charged moments.
Here are 10 amazing clear drape c-section images shared with Mum’s Grapevine, taken by brilliant birth photographers and birth support partners in the US.
Hello world
The proud moment that a woman becomes a mother. (via Amy Hess Photography)
First kiss
There’s nothing sweeter than those first, gentle kisses. (via New Life OBGYN Associates )
Watching and waiting
Sometimes it’s the fear of the unknown that can be overwhelming for a birthing woman. With clear drape c-sections mums can see exactly when their baby is safely earthside. (via Captured Moments by Melanie Jo)
Finding a voice
Those first, lung-stretching cries – is there any sound as sweet? (via Morgan Lang Photography)
Best foot forward
Every detail, including those teeny toes and feet, can be seen perfectly. (via Born. Birth Photography)
Here I am
That indescribable moment when our baby is finally ours. (via Ker-Fox Photography)
Amazing arrival
“Cesarean birth is birth. Sometimes circumstances determine that for baby and momma, it is the best option. There are limited practices that support and encourage a clear drape. This can be such a healing way for families to process an unexpected change of plans, so that they can be fully present during the birth of their child.” Alyssa Leon, photographer. (via Cherry Blossom Doula Services)
Tears of joy
Every single second after birthing a baby is like a wave of emotions. (via Captured Moments by Melanie Jo)
Newborn glow
A night shift nurse giving birth at her workplace, via ‘gentle, clear drape c-section’. (via Family Birth Place)
Sixth c-section
“My doctor had arranged to have a clear drape for the surgery and it was AWESOME! If you’re having a scheduled c-section, I highly recommend having the full clear drape. I watched my baby take his first breaths. So incredible! I even videotaped his birth through the clear drape using my cell phone while on the operating table!” Morgan Lang, photographer. (via Morgan Lang Photography)
Make sure you take a look at our other article about the photo taking every mum back to THAT post-birth moment.