Muslim expectant mothers receiving treatment at public hospitals are concerned about their aurat (modesty), and not just during childbirth, a gynaecologist at a public hospital said.

According to the public hospital gynaecologist, Muslim women also requested to use "birthing pants" during check-ups, so they could cover their aurat as much as possible.

It is generally accepted that Muslim women can only show their face and hands to members of the opposite gender they are not related to.

"There are procedures in terms of attire during childbirth, but some patients request to wear 'Mamapride' clothing.

"Patients also ask to wear it not just during birth but during check-ups," the doctor told Malaysiakini on condition of anonymity as she is not authorised to speak to the media.

'Mamapride' is the maker of 'birthing pants', which allow expectant mothers to cover their thighs, ankles and knees during childbirth.

The gynaecologist said that many of her patients would ask that a female doctor assist them in childbirth, citing religious reasons.

"They want the baby delivered by female staff, but we cannot guarantee it because it will depend on how many female doctors are on duty at the time.

"If there are not enough female doctors, a male doctor will assist because the safety and life of the patient is our priority," she said, adding that some women are in labour for 12 hours.

She said most deliveries were assisted by a midwife or nurse, while a doctor would be present in the event of complications.

"Such situations are very dangerous and frightening, and it must be handled to ensure the patient is safe," she said.

Deputy Health Minister Dr Hilmi Yahya on Sunday said the government was looking at allowing only female doctors to assist childbirth.

But he said the plans were put on hold as there were not enough female doctors in public service in the obstetrics and gynaecology line.

However, health secretary-general Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah clarified that while patients' preference of who should assist them in childbirth will be heeded, priority is still on ensuring a safe delivery.

He added that there was no restriction against male doctors assisting childbirth.

In 2013, the Health Ministry received a petition to only allow female doctors and nurses to work in the labour room and maternity ward, in the interest of the aurat of the Muslim patients.

The petition, signed by 6880 people, urged the ministry to encourage women to take up obstetrics and gynaecology, and raise awareness among medical professionals of the aurat requirements during childbirth.