Ileana D'Cruz, the Bollywood actress, recently shared details about the birth of her second son, Keanu Rafe Dolan, and her postpartum experience. Keanu was born on June 19, 2025. This joyous occasion comes after she and her husband, Michael Dolan, welcomed their first child, Koa Phoenix Dolan, in August 2023.

D'Cruz revealed that she intentionally chose to forgo an epidural during Keanu's delivery. Reflecting on this decision, she said she "wanted to do things differently" and "to be a little crazy" this time around. She collaborated with her nurse to create a birth plan that aligned with her wishes, and she successfully delivered her son without medication. "It was amazing," she stated, expressing her satisfaction with the experience.

In an interview with NDTV, D'Cruz opened up about her postpartum experience following Keanu's birth. She candidly admitted that it has been "incredibly hard" and "very difficult". Unlike her first pregnancy, where she openly shared photos of her baby bump, Ileana kept much of her second pregnancy a secret, only sharing glimpses of her bump in May. She also spoke about the mental challenges she has faced. "The new mental space is completely messed up," she explained, emphasizing the complexities of navigating life with a newborn, a toddler, and the pressure to regain physical strength. "It's not just the baby, it's the baby, it's your toddler, it's you. It's all those factors," she added.

D'Cruz noted that while she was aware of what to expect during the postpartum period, the mental challenges have been particularly difficult. She elaborated on the difference between her first and second postpartum experiences. "First time, you're trying to come to terms with everything. It's like you've gone from being a single woman to suddenly you've given birth, and now you've got to take care and ensure this baby is healthy and surviving and thriving," she said.

The actress also shared that physically, her second postpartum recovery has been smoother compared to her first. However, she misses the support system she had in Mumbai, including her girlfriends who understand what she is going through. "It's nice to sort of be able to talk to somebody who actually understands what you're thinking," she said. Despite missing her support network, D'Cruz appreciates the privacy she has in her current life.

D'Cruz has previously been open about her struggles with postpartum depression after the birth of her first child, Koa. She has emphasized the importance of having a strong support system and seeking help when needed. She also acknowledged the "intense emotions" that come with being a new mom.

Ileana and Michael announced Keanu's arrival on Instagram with a touching photo of the newborn. "Introducing Keanu Rafe Dolan. Born on June 19th 2025," she wrote, adding, "Our hearts are so full". The announcement was met with an outpouring of love and congratulations from fans and fellow celebrities, including Priyanka Chopra.