Ohhh Baby!

The pandemic put so many things on pause, but not even COVID-19 can keep babies at bay. “We’re calling this a pandemic boom – our obstetrical numbers are through the roof in comparison to last year at this time,” says Kaylah Rondon, MD, FACOG, of Atlantic Medical Group Women’s Health at Westfield. Dr. Rondon and her partners, Fatima Naqvi, MD, FACOG, and Cecilia Zhang, DO, are board certified in obstetrics and gynecology by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and are dedicated to delivering all encompassing care for women through all stages of life, from their menstrual journey to fertility and pregnancy, through menopausal care and beyond.

“We optimize best maternal care practices,” says Dr. Zhang. “We follow our moms so closely and stick to guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.” She points out that Atlantic Medical Group Women’s Health at Westfield is closely involved with the team of maternal-fetal medicine specialists at Overlook Medical Center. In fact, all of their obstetrical patients receive ultrasounds through Atlantic Maternal-Fetal Medicine; all images are read by a maternal-fetal medicine doctor, and then a report is sent to the practice with seamless coordination of care.

“The labor and delivery unit at Overlook really advocates for best outcomes for mom and baby,” adds Dr. Zhang. This includes promoting high-quality laboring and doula services, minimizing primary cesarean section rates, optimizing maternal postpartum health and long term medical health, and fostering a breastfeeding-friendly culture. 

Additionally, the anesthesiologists have the depth and breadth of obstetrical specialty experience, and understand how anesthesia can affect labor and breastfeeding.

“Far too many women know what it's like to go to a doctor and feel like they're not being heard or helped. I became an OB/ GYN to ensure that I can do my part to change that experience. Every woman walking into our door should feel like she has a doctor who will listen to her concerns, talk to her about options and make her feel looked after. No matter what else is going on, your health and your family's health is a priority. We are here to listen and to help,” says Fatima Naqvi, MD. “We’re all in a similar boat in our practice because we’re all moms,” says Dr. Rondon, who is bilingual in English and Spanish. “Since becoming a mom, and now a mom of two, it’s helped me connect with our pregnant patients. I’m able to share anecdotes from my own experiences.” The practice has also seen a growth of patients from all different ethnic backgrounds, especially Spanish speaking moms.

Below, three new moms share their own experiences about delivering their babies at Overlook.