Caesarean birth with a window drape: see your baby from the first breath
Dr. med. Barbara Blöchlinger-Wegmann
August 28, 2025
5 min
Thanks to the window drape, parents can see and experience their child from the very first second of the caesarean section. This unique moment of closeness and bonding brings families together from the very beginning. Dr Barbara Blöchlinger-Wegmann, our Head of Obstetrics at the Women's Clinic, tells us more.
What is the difference between a caesarean birth and a conventional caesarean birth?
Many improvements have been made to caesarean sections in recent years. As a rule, the baby can be handed directly to the mother for the first bonding after the umbilical cord has pulsed out. However, with a conventional caesarean section, mothers were previously only able to hear their child's first minutes of life as cries behind the cloth. Since the option of a caesarean birth with a window sheet has been available, they can actually see their child through a viewing window from the very first minute and consciously savour this moment.
How do mothers describe their experience with the window drape?
The parents are consistently very positive and grateful - they love it! I have often seen tears of happiness from mums when they see their baby through the window scarf for the first time. Funnily enough, many babies even stretch their arms out towards their parents.
Some parents fear that they will see the open belly, but this is not the case. We can reassure them and then they enjoy it.
A loving start in life
How we support bonding at Zollikerberg Hospital
The first moments with your baby are unique and full of closeness. At Zollikerberg Hospital, we attach great importance to ensuring that bonding can begin immediately after the birth. Find out how we create the basis for a loving start to your new life together.
What role can the accompanying person play in a caesarean birth with a window pouch and how are these moments experienced?
If the accompanying person wishes to do so and the umbilical cord is long enough, they can take on the task of cutting the cord during the caesarean section. In addition, the accompanying person can stay with the mother the whole time so that they can start together as a family of three - wonderful.
Are there certain medical requirements or restrictions that need to be taken into account for a caesarean birth with a window drape?
The possibility always depends on the individual situation and is assessed by a doctor. However, a caesarean section with a window drape is not possible with a general anaesthetic.
Is the window drape now an option for all caesarean births at Zollikerberg Hospital?
The window drape is offered for all planned caesarean sections if the parents so wish.
Read the blog article
Obstetrics and neonatology: hand in hand for you and your baby
The birth of your child is a unique moment in your life. At Zollikerberg Hospital, we make sure that you feel safe and well cared for, both medically and personally. Our experienced, interdisciplinary team from obstetrics and neonatology will accompany you during this special time.
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