Eager to learn where we're opening next? Join our growing community.
Back to articles

Ahma Need a Minute Highlights | Ep 21. Expert Series: Labor and Delivery Experiences Through the Years with Dr. Sonya Ye, OB/GYN

October 18, 2023
By
Ahma & Co Team

<iframe style="border-radius:12px" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/episode/6zosaF8WIiNm5vzZ4cLM3j?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="250" frameBorder="0" allowfullscreen="" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" loading="lazy"></iframe>

In this episode, Dr. Sonya Ye is back to hear from parents across generations who share their preparation and experiences for child birth. Sonya shares tools, resources and her perspective of the labor and delivery experience from a doctor’s point of view. The episode highlights things parents may not know about in going into labor and giving birth at a hospital.

Episode Timestamps:

  • ‍5:49 - Prenatal classes suggested to prepare for the big day.‍
  • 8:00 - Importance of credible resources in gaining birth knowledge. The positives and downfalls of TikTok education.‍
  • 18:47 - The big (delivery) day. Parents share what happened on their big day going into labor.‍
  • 27:35 - Sonya gives us a rundown of how a birth experience might go. From noticing the early stages of labor, cervical ripening, to dilating and contracting.‍
  • 35:00 - Details of induction and augmentation. Moving labor along.‍
  • 49:40 - Sonya’s advice on advocating for yourself in the medical space.

Overwhelmed with information? Here are some good resources for information about labor and delivery.

Expert Websites:

Mobile Apps:

Books:

Additional Podcasts:

Please remember to reach out to your OB/GYN or midwife with questions. They can also provide more resources specific to your concerns.

Ahma & Co Team

Related Posts

How to Navigate Postpartum After C-Section

Statistics show that 1 in 3 babies are delivered via c-section. Whether it was planned or unplanned, recovering from surgery can be painful and overwhelming; here’s everything you should know as you navigate postpartum after a C-section.
READ MORE

Heading

This is some text inside of a div block.
READ MORE

How to Navigate Postpartum After C-Section

Statistics show that 1 in 3 babies are delivered via c-section. Whether it was planned or unplanned, recovering from surgery can be painful and overwhelming; here’s everything you should know as you navigate postpartum after a C-section.
READ MORE

Expert Live with Doula Gigi: Discussing the 5 Essential Services for Postpartum

Missed out on our first live? Tune into the full recording with key takeaways here! From postpartum nutrition to pelvic floor therapy and belly binding, Gigi dives into the 5 essential services for recovery & wellness.
READ MORE

Why Is Postpartum Care So Important?

What is the importance of postpartum care, and why isn't it just a "nice to have"?
READ MORE

Keeping the Spark Alive: How to Navigate Changes in Your Relationship After Having a Baby

Parenthood is a journey, and you and your partner are in it together. Here's our best relationship advice for new parents, on how to maintain a healthy relationship with your partner after having a baby.
READ MORE

Ahma Need a Minute Highlights | Ep 21. Expert Series: Labor and Delivery Experiences Through the Years with Dr. Sonya Ye, OB/GYN

Dr. Sonya Ye is back to react to birth stories from parents across generations, and share tools, resources and perspective of the labor and delivery experience as an OB-GYN.
READ MORE

Postpartum Workwear: What to Wear to the Office After Maternity Leave

Returning to work, but unwilling to sacrifice style for comfort? From underwear to shoes, we've got you covered on postpartum work clothes.
READ MORE

4 Attainable New Year's Resolutions for Moms - Loving Yourself and Your Family

It's time for a new list! This year, we're voting for resolutions that are realistic, attainable, and will help you focus on what matters: yourself and family.
READ MORE

Warning Signs & Symptoms: the Difference Between Postpartum Blues, Depression, Anxiety, and Psychosis

The pressures of the holiday season can feel even heavier for a new mom, making it even more essential for families and friends to be on the watch for signs that she may be struggling. Here is a list of common conditions, and the differences.
READ MORE

15 Gift Ideas for New Moms

Wondering what you should get her for the holidays? Check out our list of best gifts for new moms that they'll actually use.
READ MORE

What is a Birth Plan? Here's a Free Template to Get You Started

A birth plan can be a great tool to help you think through all the details of the birth, so that you can be best prepared for what's to come. We're starting you off with a free birth plan template!
READ MORE

Tips for Successfully Returning to Work After Maternity Leave

Going back to work after maternity leave? Check out our tips on how to make your transition seamless and stress-free.
READ MORE

What Happens After Giving Birth? The 24 Hours After Delivery

You know what to expect for the birthing process, but what happens after you give birth? We explore everything from the vagina after birth to your little one’s health tests, including the Apgar.
READ MORE

How to Support Someone Who Had a Miscarriage

Knowing what to say to someone you love who had a miscarriage is hard. Learn what to do and what to avoid while giving her space to grieve.
READ MORE

Just in Time for Halloween: Mommy & Me Costumes for DIY & Amazon Prime

Still looking for a costume? Here are 10 options to spark some inspiration.
READ MORE

A New Mom's Guide to Navigating Birth Options

Who do you want on your care team, and where would you like to give birth? The options you have for your birth plan have expanded as the idea of a natural delivery has become more widely practiced. Here's what you should know about the alternatives.
READ MORE

Maintaining that Pregnancy Glow: a Guide to Pregnancy-Safe Skincare

The pregnancy glow is one of the greatest benefits during pregnancy - here are some practical tips to keep you glowing in a pregnancy-safe way.
READ MORE

Your Questions, Answered: Sexual Health Week with Dr. Sonya Ye, Resident OB/GYN

It's the second full week of September, and that means it's Sexual Health Week! We often forget that sexual health is also relevant during a stage such as postpartum - so, we've teamed up again with our Chief Health Officer to answer your questions.
READ MORE

A Rallying Cry: The Importance of Community for Young Moms

Social support is crucial to a mother's wellbeing - especially that of younger moms. Here's a story of two young mothers, and the impact of their communities uplifting them through the uncertainties.
READ MORE

3 Mindfulness Meditation Practices for Pregnancy and Beyond

Mindfulness meditation is inherently spiritual and is rooted in Buddhist practice; however, regardless of your religious and spiritual affiliation, practicing mindfulness meditation has many benefits for anyone – including during and after pregnancy.
READ MORE

Ahma Need a Minute Highlights | EP. 3.1. Cynthia: Sharing Realizations Throughout Her Fertility Journey; EP. 3.2: Recovery And Return to Self

Cynthia, an NYC wedding photographer, shares her story with heart in a two-part episode. Tune in for the discussion of her emotional fertility journey and the reflection and support that led to her recovery and return to self.
READ MORE

Ahma Need a Minute Highlights | EP 2. Joyce: Making Decisions and Giving Space for Course Correction

When Joyce struggled to find time during her fellowship, her village stepped up to fill in the gaps. Joyce shares her perspective on her "systems", making decisions and course-correcting as she goes.
READ MORE

Ahma Need a Minute Highlights | EP 1. Shaniece: Learning to Be Your Best Advocate

Shaniece is an imperfectly perfect Mother of Two, Wife, and Educator amongst many other titles. Hear her birth stories and how she took learnings from her first experience to strategize and advocate for herself the second time around.
READ MORE

Ahma Need a Minute Highlights | EP 0. Meet Ahma & Co and Your Podcast Host, Margaret

After a year of careful planning, our podcast is live! As an introduction, Esther, the founder of Ahma & Co, and Margaret, your host, talk about the inspiration and motivations behind it all.
READ MORE

Making it Work: Balancing Mom Life and Student Life

Being a mom is hard, and even harder when you're a student. Jeanne reflects on the hardest degree she ever had to earn - and the tips that she picked up along the way.
READ MORE

From Our Bar Cart to Yours: 8 Alcohol-Free Drinks

Sometimes, you just really need a drink - but can't because you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or want to avoid the side effects of alcohol. We're curated a list of our favorites non-alcoholic drinks for exactly those times!
READ MORE

Supporting the Unicorn Mom - How To Help a Mom With a Special Needs Child

Many of us have the desire to help, but feel unsure what we can do or whether we will actually be helpful. Based on her research and experience as a mom, Jean shares a few ideas on how to get started.
READ MORE

How to Be the #1 Supporter for Your Pregnant Loved One

We wrote this specifically for partners, family members, and besties of pregnant women. At the end of the day, you know her best - but if you're looking to brainstorm ideas on how to start supporting your pregnant loved one, here's our list!
READ MORE

Beating the Mom Meme with Rent the Runway and Wantable

Moms have little time to shop (yes, we've all seen that meme, showing the before & after baby outfit photos). Determined to crack her post-baby style, Jeanne tried two fashion subscription services - and here's what she learned.
READ MORE

10 Products to Consider Purchasing in Preparation for Your Postpartum Experience

Expecting and not sure how to prepare for the postpartum experience? Here's a list of 10 must-have products to get you started.
READ MORE

Are You a Postpartum Mom? You Can Still Enjoy the 4th of July

The holiday is right around the corner, and as a recovering mom, you deserve to join in the festivities too. Here are our best tips on how.
READ MORE

Surviving "Pregnancy Heat" in the Summer Months

People love giving unsolicited advice to pregnant women, but there's one symptom that no one really has the answer to: "pregnancy heat." So, here is some unsolicited advice from a fellow mom who lived to tell the tale.
READ MORE

How to Be Your Best Advocate for Labor & Beyond

Birth and postpartum come with many changes and uncertainties, but with preparation, you can approach with certainty that you’re equipped with the right information and support to be your own best advocate.
READ MORE

Your Questions, Answered: Q&A with Dr. Sonya Ye, OB/GYN Resident Physician

Even with all the information you’ve received from your friends, family, and targeted ads, a question or two about pregnancy, birth, postpartum might be lingering in your mind - so, we've teamed up with our Chief Health Officer to answer them.
READ MORE

Why Is Social Support Crucial During Pregnancy & Beyond?

Social support is not only beneficial to new mothers, but quite necessary. In this article, we discuss how a lack of appropriate social support can not only impact her sense of self, but also the relationship with her partner as well as her baby.
READ MORE

Postpartum Birth Planning & Fertility: 4 Things You Should Know

Whether you’re thinking about trying again right away or avoiding pregnancy to focus on yourself and your current family, it’s important to understand your postpartum fertility. In this article, we cover the answers to 4 major questions.
READ MORE

Your Postpartum Timeline: What to Expect in the First 6 Weeks

There are guides out there that talk about what to expect by week during pregnancy — but what can you expect for postpartum? Though every mom’s postpartum will look different, there are large themes in each week that will be to your benefit to understand and prepare for in advance. Here’s our official guide to the first 6 weeks after birth.
READ MORE

Your Postpartum Recovery Recipe Book (Read: Nutritious & Delicious Dishes You Can Make in Bulk, then Freeze and Reheat in a Pinch)

Postpartum nutrition is important, but when you’re barely getting 3 hours of sleep a night, cooking and consuming nutritious meals every single day seem like an unrealistic luxury - but actually, it can be a reality with the right amount of help and prep! That’s why we’ve curated a list of 5 hearty dishes that can be cooked, frozen and easily reheated in a pinch, and provide essential nutrients for the recovering mother.
READ MORE

Postpartum Nutrition is Especially Important for Your Health, and the Reasons Can Be Summarized in 3Fs

After 40 weeks of a restricted diet, you might be tempted to pop open a bottle of champagne and swing back into your diet - but nutrition and a balanced diet is especially important in postpartum, for both your and baby’s long-term health.
READ MORE

Colostrum: an Ode to the Harvest

It’s a liquid that your body produces that can be immensely beneficial to your child’s health and well-being, but it’s NOT breastmilk. You’ve probably heard about it on TikTok or seen it on Instagram, but just what the heck is colostrum?
READ MORE

The Mental and Physical Ripples in the Birthing Experience That No One’s Told You About (Yet)

What can you expect after the birth? You might have heard that there’s some residual bleeding…but just how much? What about the swelling, tearing, and the hair loss? Read on for a detailed list of every little thing you might experience, postpartum.
READ MORE

A Happy Valentine's Day for Every Postpartum Mom and Their Love Language

We get it - with the little one in tow, it’s hard to find time (and the bandwidth) to be romantic. Fret not, we’ve put together a full list of ideas on how you can celebrate Valentine’s Day this year with your loved one who’s still recovering from birth! Read on for detailed ideas on how you can surprise & delight every mom and their love language. (Moms, if you’re reading this, feel free to drop a hint 😉)
READ MORE

Let's Talk about the History of Postpartum Care in the U.S.

Even before the celeb moms started talking about it on Instagram, postpartum care was considered essential but often overlooked. Thankfully, the awareness surrounding the importance of proper recovery in the “4th trimester” is higher than ever - read on to learn about how postpartum care started, and how it has evolved through history.
READ MORE

The Best Sleep Training Method? There Isn’t One!

Who knew “sleep training” could be so contentious? The topic has inspired a long-standing debate in the parenting world; however, research suggests that the “best” method of sleep training doesn’t exist- it’s all about customizing what works well for you and your family! Learn more about the primary methods and what each one is about.
READ MORE

Taylar Klecan on Doula Work & Motherhood: the Importance of Strengthening Mother’s Self-Care Muscle & Intuition

Moms may be the experts on everything, but Taylar Klecan is the expert on everything moms! In an interview with Taylar, she described how society often forgets about mom’s needs- and it’s about time we remember them. Learn more about what she does, and how she helps moms build the self-care "muscle" in their budding journey.
READ MORE

Yep, the Side Effects of Pregnancy Suck. Here Are Some Things That Might Help

The day you figure out that you're pregnant also means the start of a bunch of side effects that come along with this experience. But not to fret! Morning sickness, swollen feet, constipation, and many other reactions can be soothed, and some even prevented. Here’s how.
READ MORE

The Moms’ Guide to Black Friday Shopping in 2021

Happy Thanksgiving! As you’re off being superwomen (more than usual in this holiday season), we wanted to make sure you can do something for yourself too - so, here’s our curated list of Black Friday deals that are focused on you.
READ MORE

Breast Care Isn’t Vain - Tips for Care During Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Your breasts become some of the most vital parts of the body during and after pregnancy. While they may seem like a miracle, unstoppable source of nutrition and comfort for your baby, they are also very delicate. During and after pregnancy, even if you aren’t planning on breastfeeding, you must take care of your breasts so they remain healthy. Check out our article to learn how. 🤱🏻🤱🤱🏼🤱🏽🤱🏾🤱🏿
READ MORE

A New Sibling on the Rocks & Hold the Angst, Please

Welcoming a sibling can and should be an exciting experience for your child! However, it’s sometimes much easier said than done. Learn how to navigate the nuances of preparing your child to welcome a new sibling.
READ MORE

The “Must-Haves” Checklist for Your Hospital Bag

You're preparing for the big day in the hospital, but what should you pack? Our pregnancy hospital bag checklist tells you the essentials to pack for mom, dad (or partner) and the baby.
READ MORE

Bon Voyage: Traveling While Pregnant

Day by day, we see traveling expanding in a way that safeguards the health and wellbeing of travelers. It’s important that we don’t leave expecting moms out of the loop! Learn more about how to navigate traveling while pregnant.
READ MORE

#PregnantCostumes - 15 Inspirations from Real Moms

Pregnant during Halloween, and looking for a costume? Not to worry--use that bump to your advantage! Check out our most recent article for the best Halloween costumes for pregnant individuals, inspired by real moms! From cute to scary, we’ve got it all! 🎃
READ MORE

From Our Ears to Yours: Top Ten Podcasts for Busy Moms (and Moms-To-Be)

Need something interesting to listen to on your commute to work? While you’re running or cooking? We’ve curated our Top 10 Podcasts that will keep you covered from the start of your pregnancy to birth, postpartum care, parenting and beyond. It’s always better to learn more than you think you’ll need to know- and you’ll be off to a solid start with three!
READ MORE

Forget Baby Boom, Think Bust: Pandemic’s Influence in Decreasing Birth Rates

When the pandemic hit the U.S. in 2020, couples were left with a lot of alone time…leading people to anticipate a baby boom. Contrary to the belief, COVID implications has meant a decrease in the number of babies conceived and born. Read on to find out why.
READ MORE

Putting Twilight Sleep to Bed

Before epidurals were a thing, Twilight Sleep was what many women turned to for seemingly pain-free labor. Little did they know…
READ MORE

Your (Non-Exhaustive) Guide On Navigating a Solo Pregnancy

Spoiler alert: it’s all about the right support network, rather than the right romantic relationship.
READ MORE

Birth Control. A Plethora of Options and a History to Prove it.

Fun fact: ancient Romans used animal bladder to protect against pregnancy and disease. Thanks to modern science, we now have more options available. Learn about the plethora of birth control options you can consider if you’re ready to return to intimacy after birth.
READ MORE

Navigating a Fertility Crisis: Exploring your Health, Emotions, and Options

Unlike the way we see it happen in the movies, becoming pregnant doesn’t usually happen in one go. Getting pregnant takes time, patience and consistency, and there’s a chance that fertilization may not happen for you even with careful planning -and that’s okay. Infertility is very common across both men and women, but luckily, there are many avenues of conceiving or building out a family that you can also try. Read on to learn more about the options you have, and how to navigate the emotions that come with them.
READ MORE

The Eloquent Vagina: The Ins and Outs of Female Anatomy

Spoiler alert: the vagina is NOT what you think it actually is. We’re here to educate and talk about one of the most strong and magical parts of the female anatomy.
READ MORE

We’re Breaking the Silence on Miscarriage and the Necessary Postpartum Care

It’s no surprise that you seldom hear about a woman experiencing one, given that all such conversations are carried on in hushed whispers - but 15-25% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage, and it's time to break the taboo and the silence.
READ MORE

Epidural Myths: How Much of a Pain in the Back Are They Really?

We’re here to bust some myths about epidurals! Whether you decide to utilize this most common form of pain relief during labor or not, be sure to educate yourself on these common misconceptions as you create your desired plan.
READ MORE

The Hospital and the Home: a Historical Duel

Deciding where you’re going to give birth is a huge detail of your birthing plan and it’s a deeply personal one. Some moms might prefer to deliver in a hospital with plenty of medical staff, while others might feel more comfortable in their own home with a midwife. No matter what your choice is, let us help you make an informed one.
READ MORE

Work & Motherhood: How to Master the Balancing Act

Returning to work after having a baby is a tremendous transition for your career and your family. After weeks (or potentially months) away from the office, it might feel strange to suddenly have to clock back in every day – especially if it means leaving your child behind at home. We share some tips and tricks on how to best master the precarious balancing act.
READ MORE

The Cycle Continues: Post-Baby Periods

They’re back! After a 40-week break, your periods are looming on the horizon, waiting to return and signal fertility once again. So, what are the most essential things you need to know? In this article, we answer some of the most frequently answered questions so that you can get a head start on what to expect.
READ MORE

Adieu to Taboo: It's Time to Normalize Public Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is acknowledged and recommended by the World Health Organization as a way to nourish our little ones, but that hasn’t prevented the horrific instances of strangers shaming mothers who attempt to publicly breastfeed. It’s considered taboo, but why? Public breastfeeding is legally protected in all 50 states, and it’s about time that we normalize it.
READ MORE

Olympian Mothers: Trials, Tribulations and Tenacity

As we watch them shatter world-records and perform unimaginable feats this week in Tokyo, we often forget that Olympians are humans too - and that they also struggle with challenges of motherhood. They’ve had to battle pregnancy complications, postpartum depression, career setbacks, and juggle their impressive careers with the demands of raising a child to get to where they are. Read on for stories of how some athletes have had to balance motherhood and sports and the inspiring drive and dedication they exhibit everyday.
READ MORE

The “Right” Way to Give Birth: C-Sections vs. Vaginal Deliveries

In recent times, there has been a growing movement from “natural” birth advocates favoring vaginal births over surgical ones and advocating for unmedicated labor. How medically valid is this belief?
READ MORE

Tour De Maternity Leave: An International Policy Comparison

When it comes to maternity love, some mothers do have it best. Dive into a dissection of the variances of contemporary maternity and parental leave policies among countries, and how it all came to be.
READ MORE

Pursuing Your Olympic-Inspired Fitness Kick: Postpartum Edition

Watching the Olympics, you may begin to wonder if you, too, can test out your Olympic fantasy. However, postpartum exercise may not be as simple as watching the Games and feeling inspired to show up at the gym to crush a crazy workout. Your body has undergone an incredible feat of delivering a child, and working out may be a little different now.
READ MORE

5 Ways to Be a Sustainable Parent

Let’s face it -the state of the environment isn’t reflective of those currently living it, but those that came before it. Want to leave a great, beautiful tomorrow for your little ones? Here are 5 ways to get started.
READ MORE

Why the Contemporary Gender Wage Gap Is A Penalty for Motherhood

It is universally acknowledged that women consistently earn less than men for performing the same job, even though gender-based pay discrimination has been illegal since 1963. But why does this wage gap still exist?
READ MORE

What to Expect When You’re Expecting Multiples

Surprise....you’re having twins! Having multiples can lead to heightened pregnancy symptoms and premature labor. How will you navigate this simultaneously thrilling and challenging journey?
READ MORE

To Breastfeed, or Not to Breastfeed…

When it comes to nourishing your baby, the phrase “Breast Is Best” may as well be printed onto the sky in flashing neon lights, given how much it is thrown around in the mom-sphere. But is it true?
READ MORE

Buh-Bye, Gender Reveal Parties; Hello, Gender Neutral Parenting

Move over, gender-reveal parties; it’s time to talk about raising children in a gender-neutral environment.
READ MORE

The Kama Sutra for New Moms

Sex. The thing that got you to where you are today, and the thing that has been lingering in your mind during the first few weeks postpartum. Yep, let’s talk about that.
READ MORE

Postpartum Bods are Bikini Bods

New moms are constantly exposed to headlines like "the best swimsuits to hide postpartum pooch." But the changes your body undergoes do not make you less deserving of donning a bikini (if you please) this summer.
READ MORE

Fourth of July: Indulgence of the Summer

Bring on the 4th of July BBQ! From fries to burgers to all those red, white, and blue desserts, we have all the tips on what foods will keep mom and baby safely (and happily) nourished. Happy 4th!
READ MORE

From Our Bookshelf to Yours: Top 12 Reads for Every Mom

Feeling a bit tired of those YouTube videos? Pick up a good book instead - we’ve got you covered.
READ MORE

Breastfeeding: the Good, the Bad, and the Lactation Consultant

Breastfeeding can be one of the most unique and personal experiences a mother shares with her child…so why does it have to be so painful?
READ MORE

Postpartum Retreat Centers: a Recovery Haven for Long-Term Wellbeing

What can we learn from South Korea’s approach to maternal care?
READ MORE

Beyond the Baby and the Blues

Postpartum depression is real - 1 in 9 women suffer from it. So what causes it, and how can mothers get help?
READ MORE

It's Time to Talk About Postpartum

Everyone talks about the pregnancy and the birth, but what happens after?
READ MORE

The Myth of the Perfect Instagram Mom & Why You Should Stop Expecting to be Her

The true story behind the flawless photographs.
READ MORE

Podcast

Our ServicesEducation & CommunityOur StoryOur PartnersPrivacyTerms & Conditions
©2022 Ahma & Co. All rights reserved.
;