New York, July 23 (IANS): A medical student's action of posting a selfie next to a woman's private parts while working in a hospital delivery room has drawn much criticism, media reported.

Venzeuela-based Daniel Sanchez reportedly posted the offending photograph to his Instagram account with the caption, "Lady I can deliver your baby but first let me take a selfie," investigative website vice.com reported.

According to the report, the controversial picture showed Sanchez smirking at the camera while a woman, who is naked from the waist down, gives birth behind him.

Activist group Roses Revolution, which aims to end obstetric violence, started a Change.org petition encouraging an investigation of Sanchez.

"Health professionals and students dealing with mothers should have impeccable behaviour at all times that respects the emotional and physical needs of women in labour and their babies," the petition reads.

"It is absolutely unacceptable and illegal to take pictures of the women or babies admitted to maternity services without their knowledge and without their consent," it adds

The petition asks for Sanchez's hospital to investigate his practices and to take appropriate action. It currently has over 5,000 supporters.

According to the report, Sanchez apologized for the photo, but said that he had the consent of the woman photographed.