Ashanti recently gave fans an intimate look into her journey through motherhood, sharing a mirror selfie that highlighted her post-baby experience while wearing Frida Mom disposable underwear. This candid moment allowed her followers a glimpse into her “fourth trimester,” a period of adjustment and recovery that many new mothers experience.
Ashanti and her partner, Nelly, welcomed their son, Kareem Kenkaide Haynes, on July 18, 2024. The couple’s joy was palpable as a representative shared with People magazine, “Ashanti and Nelly are over the moon with love for their baby boy, KK!”
In addition to the mirror selfie, Ashanti posted a series of photos on Instagram, including a video where she appeared in a blue robe, proudly displaying her post-baby body.
“Four weeks postpartum. You have no idea what this body can do,”
she confidently declared, showing her resilience and pride in her postpartum journey.
Reflecting on her experience, Ashanti wrote in her caption, “Funny how life’s plans aren’t always on time… lol. I’ve been waiting to be a mom for a long time now, but nothing could prepare me for EVERYTHING motherhood brings!” She continued,
“This is what postpartum looks like, and I’m loving these super cozy @fridamom shorts! I’m so proud of my body for giving me my baby, baby, baby, baby, baby. “
Ashanti’s openness about her postpartum experience resonates with many women who understand the challenges and triumphs that come with the “fourth trimester.” Her message of self-love and body positivity is a powerful reminder of the strength and beauty in motherhood.
The Grammy-winning artist had first shared the news of her pregnancy in a playful Instagram video. In the video, her mother, Tina Douglas, asked her how much time she needed to prepare for an upcoming performance. Ashanti’s response was humorous yet revealing: “Uh, I’m gonna need about nine months,” she said, leaving her mother surprised. The playful moment captured the joy and anticipation of her journey into motherhood.
Later, Ashanti opened up to Essence about her pregnancy, revealing that she was not only expecting her first child but also engaged to Nelly. “This new year of my life is such a blessing full of love, hope, and anticipation,” Ashanti shared. “Motherhood is something that I have looked forward to for so long, and sharing this with my family, fiancé, and loyal fans, who have been so supportive of my career, is an amazing experience.”
Ashanti and Nelly’s love story has been one of deep connection and shared dreams. The couple tied the knot on December 27, 2023, in a ceremony that was initially kept private. However, documents obtained by a news channal in June confirmed the union, with a channel being the first to report on their wedding.
Pregnancy rumors had swirled around the couple since they attended the 11th Black and White Ball at the Four Seasons Hotel in December. During the event, Ashanti placed her hands on her stomach while on stage, and Nelly mirrored her gesture. Their shared smiles and laughter hinted at the exciting news that was to come.
Nelly, already a father of two—son Cornell III (Tre), 25, and daughter Chanelle (Nana), 30—has embraced fatherhood again with the arrival of baby Kareem. He has also been a dedicated caregiver to his niece Sydney and nephew Shawn, whom he helped raise following the tragic passing of his sister, Jackie Donahue, from leukemia at the age of 31 in March 2005.
As Ashanti and Nelly embark on this new chapter together, their journey is a testament to love, resilience, and the joys of starting a family. The couple’s openness about their experiences provides inspiration and encouragement to their fans, showing that life’s greatest blessings often come with challenges, but they are always worth it.
