Serena Williams' Weight Loss Journey Postpartum with GLP-1 Medication Zepbound®: Proof, It’s Not All About Willpower
Table of contents
When we learned that tennis legend Serena Williams revealed she lost 31 pounds using GLP-1 weight loss medication, Zepbound®, we immediately thought of the countless mothers in our practice who've shared the same story - doing everything 'perfectly' but still unable to lose postpartum weight. Williams specifically cited her struggles after completing breastfeeding her daughters as the catalyst for seeking medical weight loss support. Her transparency about her weight loss journey reinforces what New Jersey Bariatric Center® has advocated for more than 20 years: weight management is complex, it’s not always about willpower, and seeking medical support is a valid healthcare choice, even for athletes.
Postpartum Weight Loss Challenges
Williams' story resonates with countless mothers who've faced stubborn postpartum weight retention. Despite walking 20,000 steps daily and maintaining rigorous training after weaning, she couldn't achieve her health goals. "I never was able to get to the weight I needed to be no matter what I did, no matter how much I trained," Williams told People magazine.
For Williams, the challenge intensified after her second pregnancy. "After my second kid, it just even got harder," she shared with TODAY. Her experience reflects how pregnancy can trigger lasting metabolic changes that persist long after breastfeeding ends. Williams emphasized that she "realized it wasn't about willpower; it was biological"—helping normalize the need for medical intervention.
GLP-1 Weight Loss Medication Is A Tool, Not A Shortcut
GLP-1 medications like Zepbound® work by mimicking hormones that regulate hunger and satiety, helping normalize appetite and blood sugar levels. Williams stressed these aren't shortcuts: "You're not taking a shortcut, you're taking care of yourself, and that takes courage."⁵
Weight loss medications and injections are not a standalone. They work best when combined with board-certified weight loss specialist doctor visits, diet, exercise. Williams maintained her exercise routine and healthy eating while using medication, demonstrating the comprehensive approach that often leads to effective results. New Jersey Bariatric Center patients often report benefits beyond weight loss similar to Williams, who cited normalized blood sugar levels and reduced joint pain.
Complete Support at New Jersey Bariatric Center®
At New Jersey Bariatric Center®, we understand that many factors influence weight including genetics, hormones, metabolism, lifestyle, mental health, and underlying medical conditions. Our comprehensive medical weight loss program combines FDA-approved prescription medications like Zepbound® and Wegovy® with the support structure patients need for success.
Our program includes:
- Monthly doctor visits for ongoing medical supervision
- FDA-approved weight loss medication NJ residents can trust, including Zepbound®, Wegovy®, and Saxenda®
- Nutrition education and counseling from experienced professionals
- Exercise and lifestyle modification guidance
- Long-term support to maintain results
Breaking the Stigma of GLP-1s
Williams' openness matters because it normalizes necessary conversations. "A lot of people are actually on GLP-1s but don't really want to talk about it," she noted.⁶ This unnecessary secrecy prevents people from accessing effective treatment.
Her transparency helps validate experiences of the 12,000+ patients we've treated who tried countless diets and other weight loss fads before seeking medical help. Many initially worry about judgment when considering weight loss medications. Williams' story demonstrates that seeking medical support represents responsible healthcare decision-making, not personal failure.
Moving Forward Without Shame
Serena Williams' story helps shift weight loss conversations from judgment to healthcare. When someone with her athletic discipline chooses medical support for postpartum weight challenges, it validates similar decisions for people in New Jersey who also struggle with weight loss. After 20 years serving New Jersey patients, we know that removing stigma opens doors to life-changing treatment.
It's important to partner with experienced weight loss doctors who provide the complete support structure needed for long term sustainable results with GLP-1 medications such as Zepbound®.
For questions, call 908-481-1270.
Frequently Asked Questions
Serena Williams lost 31 pounds over 8 months using Zepbound® (tirzepatide), a GLP-1 weight loss medication. She began taking the medication after completing breastfeeding her second daughter and combined it with regular exercise and healthy eating for optimal results.
Serena Williams lost 31 pounds through a combination of Zepbound® (a GLP-1 weight loss medication), consistent exercise, and healthy eating over 8 months. After struggling with postpartum weight that wouldn't budge despite walking 20,000 steps daily and training rigorously, Williams began GLP-1 after finishing breastfeeding. She emphasized this wasn't a shortcut - she maintained her workout routine and nutrition plan while the medication helped regulate her appetite and blood sugar. This comprehensive approach of combining FDA-approved medication with lifestyle changes is the same method New Jersey Bariatric Center® uses to help patients achieve sustainable weight loss.
No, GLP-1 medications like Zepbound® and Wegovy® are not recommended during breastfeeding as they can pass to the baby through the breast milk and cause side effects to the baby. Serena Williams specifically waited until after completing breastfeeding to begin treatment. Consult with your doctor at New Jersey Bariatric Center® about the appropriate timing to start after weaning.
Serena Williams has not specifically stated she uses Ozempic®. She revealed she takes a GLP-1 weight loss medication and later confirmed she uses Zepbound® through the telehealth company Ro. Many media outlets mention Ozempic when discussing GLP-1 medications generally, as it's become a widely recognized brand name for this drug class. Both medications are GLP-1 receptor agonists that work similarly, but Zepbound® is specifically FDA-approved for weight loss while Ozempic® is approved for diabetes management. New Jersey Bariatric Center® offers complete weight loss support with GLP-1 medication options and can help determine which is best for you.
Unlike online platforms, New Jersey Bariatric Center® provides in-person care from board-certified doctors who specialize in weight management. The program includes monthly doctor visits for medical supervision, live nutrition and exercise classes, and personalized support from registered dietitians and physician assistants. This comprehensive approach addresses underlying health factors and provides the accountability and guidance that online programs often lack.
To qualify for prescription weight loss medications and injections, a BMI greater than 30, or a BMI greater than 27 with obesity-related conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or PCOS is required. You can calculate your BMI here. If you don't qualify for medication, NJBC offers other options including bariatric surgery for those who meet different criteria.
Once you call to verify your insurance coverage (or decide on self-pay), you'll meet with the doctor to go over your weight loss goals and medication options. The timeline depends on insurance approval if applicable. Our patient navigators help guide you through the entire process.
Sources:
- Williams, Serena. Interview. People Magazine, 21 Aug. 2025.
- Farpour-Lambert NJ, et al. "Postpartum Weight Retention and Its Determinants: A Systematic Review." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2021;18(8):4245.
- Williams, Serena. Interview with Hoda Kotb. TODAY Show, NBC, 21 Aug. 2025.
- "Serena Williams Says GLP-1s Jumpstarted Her Postpartum Weight Loss." Essence, 21 Aug. 2025.
- "Serena Williams reveals she's taking weight loss medication: 'I don't take shortcuts.'" NBC News, 21 Aug. 2025.
- "Serena Williams reveals she's using weight loss drugs and addresses stigma." CBS News, 21 Aug. 2025.
- FDA Approves New Medication for Chronic Weight Management. FDA News Release. November 8, 2023.
