Serena Reflects On First Pregnancy

Veteran US tennis star Serena Williams has disclosed that being heard by medical professionals after experiencing life-threatening childbirth complications literally saved her life.

She emphasizes the importance of patient advocacy and medical listening, pointing out profound healthcare disparities affecting Black women.

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In a chat with Forbes, the 44-year-old tennis legend opened up about her experience after undergoing life-threatening birth complications and how it has opened her eyes to broader issues in women’s health care.

“You know, when I told my story, I didn’t realize how many people could relate,” Williams shared during a panel at the Forbes Power Women’s Summit 2026. “And then at first I thought it was just a minority problem, but then I realized it’s a women’s problem.”

“So many women from every single background had a nightmare’s tale of their birth, you know? And so— and then it boiled down to I thought, ‘Well, gosh, if men were giving birth, they would have sweets [and] like all kinds of medicines,’ ” she jokingly added. “So it wouldn’t be the same problem at all.”

“I knew something was wrong with me and it was super important that I was heard. Thankfully, my doctor listened to me. The nurses did, but I was so fortunate enough to have a doctor that did and literally saved my life.

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“What these women are doing is they’re really letting us know that women’s healthcare is so important, and healthcare in general, because also we’re talking about women who take care of the kids, you know, I take care of my kids mostly.

“With the program, we’re able to actually solve a lot of issues, make, like I said, make those connections that are really vital, that are really important to open so many doors,” Williams continued. Because every time we open a door, we’re solving another problem that’s closer to helping us all in this room and helping our kids.”