Seeing your newborn for the first time is an experience parents never forget. For moms delivering by cesarean section however, that first glimpse is delayed because of a surgical drape that blocks the view during the procedure. Saint Joseph Health System (SJHS) has introduced a new technique using a clear drape to give parents a chance to see the moment their child is born.
“This simple technique has made a tremendous difference during one of the most significant moments of our parents’ lives,” said Noreen Faulkner, MD, Marshall County OB/GYN. “While the health of the mother and baby are our priority, this technique offers a way for the bonding time to begin immediately.”
During a typical C-section delivery, a blue drape serves as a sterile barrier during the surgery, normally blocking the view of the newborn’s delivery. With this new technique, both a blue and clear drape serve as the barrier. At the time of delivery, the blue drape is lowered while the clear drape remains, offering a view for the parents if they choose.
“Having delivered two children before, I knew what I would be missing with a normal C-section,” said Lindsey Danford of Plymouth. Danford also happens to be a part of the team that brought this technique to SJHS Plymouth Medical Center as the OB educator. “I wanted to see the first moment, how he responded and even how he wiggled.” Danford got her wish with the birth of her third son, Finley Scott.
“This isn’t something everyone is comfortable with, but it is an option that we now offer,” said Katherine Johnston, manager, OB, SJHS Plymouth Medical Center. “It truly is an incredible experience to see the delivery of a child, along with the smiles of the physicians and nurses. We are privileged to be able to offer this experience even to moms delivering by C-section.”
Both Plymouth and Mishawaka Medical Centers are offering this new technique to moms delivering by C-section. Faulkner recommends speaking with your physician about the clear drapes prior to a C-section delivery.
