Beyond Six Weeks: The Postpartum Year with OB-GYN and Veteran Dr. Charles

In this episode of The Dr. Tamara Beckford Show, OB-GYN and U.S. military veteran Dr. Meedlen Charles breaks down what the postpartum period really is—and why it extends far beyond the standard six-week check. We cover the first year after birth, including common but not normal symptoms like urinary incontinence, what pelvic floor physical therapy can do, and how families and friends can actually help. Dr. Charles shares practical steps to create a postpartum plan (contacts, coverage, meals, chores, lactation, mental health), why rest is essential, and how social media skews expectations for new moms. We also talk about supporting veteran families, Haitian cultural perspectives, and the importance of earlier follow-ups for high-risk pregnancies.Listeners will learn:The real timeline of postpartum recovery (up to 12 months)Signs that need evaluation vs. what typically improves with supportHow to set up a village that works (and put visitors to work)Non-surgical solutions like pelvic floor therapyQuestions to ask your OB-GYN and pediatrician in the first weeksPerfect for new and expecting parents, partners, doulas, and anyone who wants evidence-based postpartum care. Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help more families get the support they deserve.