Continuing the conversation, Dr. Mary Ellen Kramp and Cat Halek dig deeper into the science and care of mastitis. They discuss how over-pumping, over-sterilizing, and “stash culture” can actually contribute to mastitis — and what a truly supportive recovery approach looks like. From practical strategies to heartfelt advocacy, this episode connects clinical insight with real-world compassion for the women navigating these challenges.

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.

In this episode of The Postpartum Years, Dr. Mary Ellen Kramp welcomes back lactation consultant Cat Halek for an in-depth look at one of the most misunderstood conditions in postpartum care — mastitis. They explore what truly causes breast inflammation, the difference between plugged ducts, engorgement, and infection, and how modern research is shifting the way clinicians approach treatment. This episode challenges old advice and empowers listeners with evidence-based, compassionate insight into one of postpartum’s most common struggles.

In this powerful episode of The Postpartum Years, Dr. Mary Ellen Kramp sits down with Dr. Lauren Mansell — physical therapist, educator, and trauma specialist — to explore how birth experiences can leave lasting physical and emotional imprints on the body.
A must-listen for anyone working with or supporting postpartum women — and for mothers themselves seeking understanding, validation, and hope.

In this episode of The Postpartum Years, Dr. Mary Ellen Kramp is joined again by internationally board-certified lactation consultant Catherine Halek to discuss the often-overlooked challenges of breast milk oversupply.

Together, they explain what defines oversupply, how it can affect both mother and baby, and why more milk isn’t always better. From forceful letdown and reflux to pain, clogged ducts, and even mastitis, they unpack the physical and emotional toll of producing too much milk — and share safe, evidence-based ways to bring balance back.
This is the conversation every new parent who’s “filling the freezer” needs to hear.

In the debut episode of The Postpartum Years, host Dr. Mary Ellen Kramp sits down with internationally board-certified lactation consultant Catherine Halek to unpack one of the most common — and misunderstood — challenges new mothers face: low milk supply.

Together, they explore what truly causes undersupply, from hormonal shifts and birth complications to insufficient glandular tissue and surgical history. They also dive into the emotional toll that comes with trying to breastfeed when your body won’t cooperate — and how understanding the physiology behind milk production can replace guilt with grace.

Real talk, real science, and a reminder that your worth as a parent isn’t measured in ounces.

Welcome to The Postpartum Years, a podcast hosted by Dr. Mary Ellen Kramp — physical therapist, pelvic health specialist, and advocate for every woman who’s ever been told to “just live with it.

In each episode, Mary Ellen talks with leading experts in women’s health about the challenges that often follow childbirth. Together, they break down what’s happening in the body, what can be done, and why you don’t have to accept pain, dysfunction, or weakness as your new normal.