birth photographer allowed for csection?

Sun Jun 24, 2012 5:42 pm

I've had two previous csections, so per Dr's recommendation for safety, we will be scheduling a cae tion this time. My Hubby is really squeemish and nearly passed out at DD's emergency csection biryh, he did ok at DS's but couldn't take pix bc he didn't want to take any chances passing out, so the nurse did it but she only got like 4 really crappy shots. I REALLY want the pix to look back at this time since its probably our last, but im afraid the hospital won't allow a professional photographer in the room. Anyone have experience with a situation like this? Who would I even ask? My OB or would I call the hospital?

Sun Jun 24, 2012 5:58 pm

Hmmm, tricky!! It's my understanding that they generally only allow necessary people into the OR, but I really can't say for sure. I would probably start by expressing your wishes to your OB, since he/she would be the surgeon in charge of your delivery.

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Sun Jun 24, 2012 6:57 pm

I know with my c-section I was only allowed necessary people in - and i believe I was allowed up to 2... I couldnt tell you if they'd allow a prof photographer in, but what about a mom? or sister? or bestfriend to come in and take some shots? That might go over more smoothly (and cheaper!). I would probably start by talking to my OB and they might just direct you to the hospital. Good luck!

Sun Jun 24, 2012 7:03 pm

There's a few people you could ask (your OB who will be doing the surgery, the person when you get registered, etc) or you could call the hospital. Some hospitals have policies related to picture-taking... some have more strict "rules" while others are more flexible. I do think it's unlikely to be allowed, but definitely ask and see. There will likely be a few people who you need to ask, including the staff in the room on the day of your surgery.

Where I used to work, I know it would have been not allowed- even with my vaginal delivery DH and our doula were not allowed to take any pictures until baby was delivered and initially assessed. And they have a pretty strict "no cameras in the OR" rule, except for medical documentation. Also, very strict on only one support person allowed (usually the husband).

Even if you are allowed, a pro photographer would likely not be allowed to bring any flashes, etc. in (as it would be distracting to the surgeon) and would have to stay in a designated spot which may or may not provide good visibility. It's not like they can say "hey doc move over, I want a shot of the baby!"

Good luck! I know it's a very special time, and you want it documented. At the same time, from the hospital's perspective I know why they wouldn't want it. I hope you are somehow able to get some nice photos to remember your baby's birth.

I guess I should add- I'm an operating room nurse!

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Sun Jun 24, 2012 10:06 pm

Hmm...I was only allowed one person in the OR, but my DH could take pictures. He was not allowed to take any video though. I would definitely start by asking your OB and express your concerns about how it went last time.

embee: Wow that's pretty strict that your hospital wouldn't allow any pics until after. I understand they don't want cameras in the way, but it's surprising you couldn't take pics of the birth.

Sun Jun 24, 2012 11:00 pm

It was a Catholic hospital... not sure if that made a difference or not, but it did influence some things. (no abortions, no vasectomies, for tubal ligations it had to go to an ethics board and get approval, etc.) That was my guess as to why- I didn't really ask. I didn't really want pics of my nether regions anyway!!

embee/Monica Co-Leader Nov 2012 DDC embee.bzcl@gmail.com

Mon Jun 25, 2012 10:47 am

What a great idea to have a photographer in there with you. I'm not sure if the hospital would allow it, but it doesn't hurt to ask. If they do let you have more than one person, maybe you can get a friend to take some pictures. I want DH to be in the room when I get the epidural, they usually don't allow it, but I'm going to ask my OB since my husband is in the medical field and we're at a different hospital now. I hope you get your pictures. =)

Athena~mom to Aubrey (8), JJ (6), Jayden (5) and Austin (2)

Mon Jun 25, 2012 10:56 am

I know with my c-section I was only allowed necessary people in - and i believe I was allowed up to 2... I couldnt tell you if they'd allow a prof photographer in, but what about a mom? or sister? or bestfriend to come in and take some shots? That might go over more smoothly (and cheaper!). I would probably start by talking to my OB and they might just direct you to the hospital. Good luck!

My mom is actually the professional photographer Im really hoping they allow two! I asked last minute with DS and they said no, but maybe since its been 3 years and if its planned, they would allow it. I have my fingers crossed anyway!

Mon Jun 25, 2012 11:11 am

In some hospitals it's the anesthesiologists call, some it is the Drs. call how many they have in. Most have a set number but will bend it for certain reasons. I'd ask your Dr. first and then he'll let you know whether he can make that call. Since it's a planned C-section I wouldn't see why not.

Mon Jun 25, 2012 11:39 am

SCORE that your mom is the professional!!

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