We recently had a heart-to-heart with the remarkable Naturi Naughton-Lewis, celebrated actress, singer, and a devoted mother of two. With her daughter Zuri born in 2017 and her son Tru arriving in 2023, she’s not just juggling a busy career but also passionately advocating for Black maternal health.
Reflecting on her journey, Naturi opened up about her experiences during childbirth. Her first pregnancy led to an unexpected C-section, which was a daunting experience. This time around, with Tru, she wanted to ensure she felt empowered and supported. “Getting a doula was a game-changer for me,” she shared. Her doula, Janee’ Aiken, played a crucial role in keeping her informed and making sure her husband was actively involved.
Naturi spent 40 hours in labor, starting at home before heading to the hospital. “Having a Black female doctor made a significant difference,” she said, recalling her experience with Dr. Kameelah Phillips, who is a strong advocate for Black maternal health. “I felt understood rather than rushed through the process.”
Although she aimed for a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC), she ultimately had another C-section. However, she found solace in knowing she had made informed choices throughout her journey. “I didn’t have the support system I needed the first time around, but this time with my doula and a supportive medical team, I felt empowered and at peace,” she reflected.
Naturi highlighted the importance of post-birth support, mentioning how her doula assisted with meal prep and lactation consulting, especially since breastfeeding was a challenge for her this time. For more insights on maternal health, check out this excellent resource.
If you’re considering at-home insemination, you might want to check out the top provider for at-home kits, Make a Mom, which offers a comprehensive kit to help you on your journey. For more parenting inspiration, visit our blog post on navigating motherhood.
In summary, Naturi Naughton-Lewis exemplifies strength and resilience in her motherhood journey, using her experiences to advocate for others while managing her thriving career.
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