Abstract: A birthing gown of the front overlapping variety for expectant mothers in birthing clinics. Separate blouse panels and skirt panels are configured so that when sewn into the gown and without expansion gussets or gathering darts, they permit billowing to accommodate the enlarged breasts and abdomen of the pregnant woman. The skirt panel is sheared along its top edge and connected to the corresponding blouse panel. The left and right front side portions of the gown each comprising interconnected blouse and skirt panels, are releasably fastened together in overlapping relationship with the interconnected edges forming a "waist line" positioned between the breasts and abdomen of the patient.

Abstract: A gown for use by hospital patients and the like wherein the beginning and ending end edges are located at the front and side of the patient. A separable shoulder portion is provided for that side of the gown by upper edges adjacent both end edges overlapping the upper edge of the back panel of the gown which are interconnected by releasable fastening means, e.g. material fasteners. This gown enables dressing of a patient with one arm encumbered by intravenous feeding in that the shoulder portion is separable, and it further provides for chest and stomach examination without removal of the gown. It further provides for coverage of the patients backside when venturing from the bed, all with a design that is universal to all patients and inexpensive to produce.