Ileana D’Cruz Shares Honest Insights on Motherhood and Breastfeeding

Actor Ileana D’Cruz has opened up about her experiences with motherhood and breastfeeding, highlighting the challenges and rewards of nurturing her two sons. Currently residing in Houston, Texas, with her husband Michael Dolan, D’Cruz welcomed her first son, Koa Phoenix Dolan, on August 1, 2023, followed by her second son, Keanu Rafe Dolan, on June 19, 2025. In an engaging Instagram Live session on August 30, she conversed with fellow actor Neha Dhupia about the complexities of early parenting, particularly the breastfeeding journey.

During the discussion, D’Cruz reflected on her initial expectations versus the reality of breastfeeding. Prior to giving birth, she sought advice from friends who had navigated similar experiences. They warned her that breastfeeding could be intense and often painful, yet they also described it as a beautiful experience. “She did tell me, you know, breastfeeding is really intense. It can be really painful, but she’s like, it’s the most beautiful thing as well,” D’Cruz shared. Despite the initial pain and complications, she emphasized the profound connection breastfeeding fosters between mother and child.

The first days of motherhood were not without their difficulties. D’Cruz recounted a stressful encounter with a lactation consultant during her hospital stay. What should have been a supportive interaction instead left her feeling judged and uncertain. “At the hospital, we were told, you know, ‘Would you like a lactation consultant to come and speak with you’? So I was like, ‘Yeah, of course, I’d love to have an expert come and talk to me.’ And I just felt so much judgment from this woman,” she explained. The consultant’s questioning about her feeding plans made D’Cruz feel uncomfortable, highlighting the pressures new mothers often face regarding their choices.

Navigating conflicting advice became another challenge for D’Cruz. While some hospital staff advised her against pumping milk for the first six weeks, her doctor suggested doing so earlier due to inflammation. This contradictory guidance added to her anxiety. “I think I was so worried. It’s very, very painful. So like I had a fever and everything was really bad,” she recalled.

In those moments of uncertainty, D’Cruz leaned heavily on expert opinions, fearing that any misstep could impact her baby’s well-being. As time passed, she learned to trust her instincts more, recognizing that each mother has a unique journey with her child. “Every woman has her own journey. Every mother has her own journey with her child, and you know, what’s best for your kid, instinctively,” she noted.

Ultimately, D’Cruz’s reflections offer a candid look at the realities of motherhood, emphasizing the importance of trusting oneself amidst external pressures. Her willingness to share these personal insights resonates with many new parents navigating similar challenges, reminding them that while the journey can be daunting, it is also filled with profound moments of connection and joy.