Tennis legend Serena Williams has shared her personal experience using GLP-1 medications for postpartum weight loss. The 23-time Grand Slam champion struggled to lose weight after giving birth to her second daughter, Adira. Despite rigorous training and clean eating, Williams found her body wouldn’t respond as expected.
Williams partnered with Ro, a telehealth platform, to access GLP-1 treatments including Zepbound. She openly discussed her journey to help other women facing similar challenges. “I realized it wasn’t about willpower; it was biological,” Williams explained in an exclusive interview with ESSENCE.
The Olympic champion’s decision to speak publicly about her weight loss journey represents a significant moment in celebrity health advocacy. Her transparency helps normalize the use of medical interventions for postpartum weight management.
Williams Struggled With Traditional Weight Loss Methods After Second Child
After surviving a life-threatening childbirth experience with her first daughter, Williams faced new challenges following Adira’s birth. The tennis superstar trained intensively and maintained a clean diet but couldn’t achieve her weight loss goals. “I trained at the highest level, ate a clean diet, pushed myself, and still, after having kids, my body just wouldn’t respond,” she revealed.
Research shows that many women lose between 5% to 15% of their starting weight over six months to a year with GLP-1 medications. However, Black women face particular challenges with postpartum weight retention compared to other demographic groups. Most women gain 25 to 35 pounds during pregnancy, but Black women are more likely to retain significant amounts of weight postpartum.
Williams held onto excess pounds despite hours of working out, leading her to explore medical alternatives. Her experience reflects broader patterns affecting many new mothers who struggle with traditional weight loss approaches after childbirth.
GLP-1 Medications Provide New Hope for Postpartum Weight Management
GLP-1 receptor agonists originated as diabetes medications but have gained popularity for weight management. These drugs mimic natural hormones that regulate blood sugar and appetite control. Nearly 12 percent of Americans have used GLP-1 drugs for weight loss, including about one-fifth of women between ages 50 and 64.
Studies demonstrate that GLP-1 medications can help patients lose 10 to 15 percent of body weight within one year. Some individuals achieve even greater results, with weight loss exceeding 20 percent. Brand names like Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda, and Zepbound have become household names due to their effectiveness.
In the postpartum phase, semaglutide after pregnancy may help moms regain control over their metabolism and appetite, making it easier to lose excess weight. The medications work by reducing appetite and helping patients feel fuller for longer periods, addressing biological factors that make weight loss challenging.
Ro Platform Offers Comprehensive Support Beyond Medication Access
Unlike traditional weight loss programs, Ro provides a telehealth platform with personalized coaching and curriculum support. The company offers access to major GLP-1 brands including Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda, and Zepbound. Williams specifically used Zepbound through their program.
Ro’s approach includes one-on-one coaching and a full year of educational support during the weight loss journey. The platform covers everything from initial diagnosis to prescription management and ongoing care. This comprehensive approach addresses the complex nature of sustainable weight management.
“By opening up about her own health, Serena is opening doors for millions of people who have felt shamed for needing support to lose weight,” says Zach Reitano, co-founder and CEO of Ro. The company previously worked with NBA veteran Charles Barkley, who served as their first celebrity GLP-1 patient ambassador.
Williams Reports Significant Health Improvements and Energy Gains
Two years after beginning her GLP-1 treatment, Williams reports feeling better than ever before. “My body actually feels better than it ever has—I feel lighter and my joints aren’t in pain and I have a lot of energy,” she told ESSENCE. The improvements extend far beyond weight loss to overall physical wellness.
The enhanced energy levels have enabled Williams to pursue new fitness goals, including training for a half marathon. This represents a significant achievement for someone who previously struggled with joint pain and fatigue. Her renewed vitality demonstrates the broader health benefits of successful weight management.
Williams emphasizes that her journey reflects healthcare rather than shortcuts to weight loss. “I know others are struggling too, and everyone deserves access to the treatment they need,” she stated. “This isn’t a shortcut. It’s healthcare.”
Celebrity Advocacy Helps Reduce Weight Loss Treatment Stigma
Williams joins other celebrities in openly discussing medical weight loss interventions. Weight loss medications like GLP-1 agonists require continuous use for optimal results and should be discontinued before attempting pregnancy. Her advocacy helps normalize these treatments for women facing similar challenges.
Reitano believes Williams is “redefining what it means to be strong” by demonstrating that seeking medical support represents strength rather than weakness. This perspective challenges traditional narratives around willpower and weight management. Celebrity endorsements can significantly impact public perception of medical treatments.
A UK survey reveals growing recognition and interest in obesity medications such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, with women showing significantly higher awareness and understanding. Williams’ openness contributes to this growing awareness and acceptance of medical weight management options.
Medical Community Emphasizes Safe Access to GLP-1 Treatments
Healthcare professionals stress the importance of proper medical supervision for GLP-1 use. FDA’s Concerns with Unapproved GLP-1 Drugs Used for Weight Loss highlight the need for legitimate prescription access through qualified healthcare providers. Platforms like Ro provide medically supervised access to these treatments.
The growing popularity of GLP-1 medications has led to increased scrutiny of their safety and effectiveness. Medical experts recommend working with healthcare professionals to determine appropriate candidates for these treatments. Proper screening helps ensure optimal outcomes while minimizing potential risks.
Williams’ partnership with Ro demonstrates the value of comprehensive medical support during weight loss journeys. The combination of medication access, professional guidance, and ongoing support creates conditions for sustainable success in postpartum weight management.
