In part one of this three-part series, Dr. Mary Ellen Kramp is joined by Pilates educator Vanessa Pinkham to break down what diastasis recti actually is — and what it isn’t.
They discuss how abdominal separation is measured, why it’s so common postpartum, and how ultrasound imaging helps assess muscle function beyond what can be seen or felt externally. This episode lays the foundation for understanding abdominal separation, pelvic floor involvement, and why proper assessment matters before jumping into exercise programs.

In this episode of The Postpartum Years, Dr. Mary Ellen Kramp and Cat Halek unpack one of the most misidentified causes of severe nipple pain during breastfeeding: Raynaud’s.

They discuss the hallmark color changes — white, purple, then red — that differentiate vascular spasms from nipple trauma or yeast, and why the return of blood flow can cause sharp, searing pain that many mothers describe as unbearable. They also address the importance of careful differential consideration — not every painful nipple is Raynaud’s — and why proper assessment matters.

In this episode of The Postpartum Years, Dr. Mary Ellen Kramp sits down with Leah to share an honest, deeply personal look at postpartum recovery across three very different births. From diastasis recti and chronic back pain to mastitis, oversupply, tongue ties, and abrupt weaning, Leah reflects on how each postpartum chapter brought new challenges, and new lessons.
Together, they explore the physical realities of abdominal separation after C-sections, when physical therapy is enough and when surgery becomes necessary, and how breastfeeding experiences can vary dramatically from child to child. Leah also opens up about fear, guilt, and grief — including the emotional impact of sudden weaning and the trauma that can linger long after birth. This conversation is a powerful reminder that postpartum recovery is not one-size-fits-all, that support can be life-changing, and that women deserve informed care long after the baby arrives.

In the final part of the series, the focus shifts to what happens after a tongue tie diagnosis — whether or not a release is performed. Mary Ellen and Cat explore bodywork, positioning, and alternative feeding strategies that can improve function and reduce stress for both baby and parent.

In part two, the conversation goes deeper into diagnosis and treatment. Mary Ellen and Cat discuss how tongue ties are assessed, why opinions vary so widely across providers, and what families should know before pursuing a release.

They unpack common misconceptions, talk through real clinical outcomes, and explain how timing, provider skill, and follow-up care can dramatically affect results.

In part one of this three-part series, Dr. Mary Ellen Kramp is joined by lactation expert Cat Halek to lay the foundation for understanding tongue ties. They explain what tongue ties are (and aren’t), how they affect an infant’s ability to feed, and why symptoms often show up in both baby and the postpartum parent.

In this episode of The Postpartum Years, Dr. Mary Ellen Kramp is joined by internationally board-certified lactation consultant Catherine Halek for a deep dive into one of the most frustrating causes of breastfeeding pain: Yeast. They break down what yeast actually is, how it differs from bacterial infection, and why symptoms like burning, itching, stabbing nipple pain, or pain that worsens after feeds should never be ignored. They also address the real-life challenges of treatment — from cleaning routines and “vectors” like bras, pumps, and breast pads, to navigating care across multiple providers — and bring some clarity to a space where misinformation is common and pain is too often dismissed.

In this episode of The Postpartum Years, Dr. Mary Ellen Kramp and her guest, Dr. Matthew Kramp, explore the nuanced role antibiotics play in treating mastitis and other postpartum breast conditions. While antibiotics can be lifesaving in certain situations, they are often prescribed too quickly. This episode helps listeners understand the risks of overuse, what questions to ask their provider, and how evidence-based care can support healing without unnecessary intervention. An essential listen for anyone navigating mastitis, breastfeeding complications, or postpartum medical decisions — and for clinicians who want to practice more informed, compassionate care.