Maria Menounos Overcomes Infertility Battle: Introducing Her Miracle Baby, Athena - Exclusive First Photos!

Maria Menounos will always cherish the unforgettable experience of embracing her baby girl for the very first time. In an exclusive interview featured in the latest edition of We magazine, the 45-year-old celebrity, along with her husband Keven Undergaro, warmly reminisces about their daughter Athena Alexandra's arrival via surrogate on June 23. Reflecting on that monumental moment, Maria reveals, "It remains the most exceptional instance in my life. The doctor tenderly placed her into my arms, and as I held her against my chest, Keven and I exchanged glances filled with overwhelming joy - a pure and unadulterated euphoria enveloped us."

Undergaro expresses, "It felt like an unbelievably joyful Christmas morning."

Menounos' journey to becoming a mother spanned a challenging and lengthy period of ten years. Faced with infertility issues, she underwent IVF treatments, which were interrupted when she received a diagnosis of a brain tumor in 2017. After successfully having the tumor removed and receiving a clean bill of health, her neurosurgeon advised against her carrying a child. When their first chosen surrogate fell through in 2020, Menounos had almost lost all hope. However, in February, the 55-year-old founder of AfterBuzz TV, Undergaro, and Menounos announced their pregnancy, bringing renewed hope. "Athena is our miraculous baby," she expresses, feeling immense gratitude.

Congratulations! How does it feel to have become a mother?

Better than anything I could have ever imagined. It's an indescribable feeling of euphoria. For such a long time, there has always been a void within me. Whenever I attended children's birthday parties, there was a twinge of sadness as I yearned for a family of my own. But now, I feel incredibly grounded, as if I have finally discovered my true place in the world.

“We’re obsessed with her,” Menounos, with husband Keven Undergaro, gushes of baby Athena. Photography by John Chapple/MEGA

What has the initial period at home with Athena been like?

The atmosphere in our house is overflowing with joy! Every member, including my dad, her Abuelita, and her baby nurse, is radiating immense love. While some may say that we would neglect our dogs, the truth is that when I'm not showering Athena with affection, I'm showering them.

What led to your decision of naming your child Athena? We were certain about picking a Greek name and had a selection to choose from. Contrary to the popular belief that you'll instantly know when you see your newborn, this wasn't the case for us. We pondered over what to do until Keven expressed his admiration for the strength associated with the name Athena, being the goddess of war and wisdom. Thus, our decision was made.

What was it like in the days leading up to your daughter's birth in Wisconsin?

We spent about a week in Milwaukee before Athena was born. During that time, we accompanied the surrogate to her doctor's appointments and enjoyed dinners with her family. As the due date approached, we decided to have her stay with us in a hotel near the hospital. Interestingly, Athena was born on the very night we checked into the hotel.

Wow! The timing couldn't have been more perfect.

We were casually chatting in my room when I decided to show her Athena's belongings, including her clothes. As I went through the items, I couldn't hold back my tears as I expressed my anticipation for her arrival. I explained that my husband has been teasing me for being impatient, constantly hoping for the baby to come sooner. I clarified, "It's not impatience, but rather an overwhelming excitement to finally meet her." After our conversation, she left the room and then, at two in the morning, her contractions began.

Tell Us about being in the delivery room.

It was a surreal experience. While walking in the halls with her, she received the epidural. As our room was adjacent, I decided to go and rest for a while. Suddenly, her husband entered the room and exclaimed, "It's time!" I quickly set up my iPad to capture the birth from an appropriate angle, while the surrogate's husband had the responsibility of taking pictures, as assigned by her. Each person had a designated task.

Everyone had a job, but my dad was reluctant to stay in the room for my birth, just like he hadn't been there for it in the past. I tried to reason with him, telling him that trying new behaviors and patterns could lead to different results. I asked him why he didn't want to be a part of this experience. Then, the surrogate stepped in and persuaded him by saying that she might need his help. And so, reluctantly, he stayed. Suddenly, with a few pushes, I saw Athena's head. The medical team asked if I was ready to grab her, but I was still unsure of what to do. [Laughs.]

Menounos showed Us around Athena’s “cozy and comfortable” nursery. Photography by John Chapple/MEGA

Were you nervous?

I was so excited. But I was worried I would drop her because I thought she was going to be slippery.

Did you feel an instant bond?

It was an incredible and effortlessly harmonious sensation, as if we had shared a deep connection for an extended period. A psychic once mentioned that she would be my mother in a past life. Consequently, this recollection prompted me to consider that perhaps that inexplicable sentiment was tied to her.

Share with us the initial stages of your quest for fertility.

I’m pretty certain that I underwent three rounds [of IVF]. I recall reaching out to my doctor, expressing my desire to drive my car into a brick wall. The experience was incredibly excruciating; I remember when I was working at a music festival and realized I had forgotten my needle. As a result, I had to use a horse needle from the arena. It was an immensely challenging period as I had to fit the process in between interviews and even administer shots while onboard a plane. Those days were truly overwhelming.

“Athena has really made our house a home,” says Undergaro. Photography by John Chapple/MEGA

Did you ever feel like giving up?

I nearly gave up once my initial surrogate arrangement fell through. However, thanks to the assistance of my lawyer, Andrew Vorzimer, whom I was connected to through Kim Kardashian, I was able to connect with Stephanie Levich from Family Match Consulting. Stephanie promptly reached out to me and informed me that she had found a potential surrogate match. Within a day, we were already engaging in a phone call with our new surrogate. It was truly a remarkable collaboration between Andy, Stephanie, and my doula, Lori Bregman, who all played pivotal roles in assisting us. By any chance, did Kim Kardashian play a part in initiating this process?

Yes, I greatly appreciate her. She played a pivotal role in helping us initiate and navigate the daunting journey. Furthermore, she was the first person we informed about our pregnancy! It was during a gala event [in November], and I couldn't contain my excitement. Her serene and composed demeanor is truly remarkable. Whenever I had queries or sought guidance, her responses were prompt. I heavily relied on her support and guidance.

Menounos' father, Constantinos, is filled with joy as he embraces his new role as papou, the Greek term for grandpa. Photography credit: John Chapple/MEGA

Were there any moments where you felt unsure before embarking on the surrogacy journey?

I have an incredible story to share. Just two days prior to the implantation, Keven and I sat outside and I expressed to him the importance of our decision. With the surrogate and her husband traveling from Wisconsin to L.A., we had to be certain about proceeding. Suddenly, I heard a commotion and witnessed a magnificent stork taking flight from a tree across the street. I even have a video capturing the moment!

This occurrence felt like a sign, and it brought us even closer to our surrogate. Can you share more about your connection with her?

It was an enchanting experience. During the pregnancy, I would send voice recordings for her to play for Athena. Our love for her and her family knows no bounds. They bestowed upon us the most extraordinary gift. We continue to have frequent conversations and regard them as part of our own family.

I was fortunate enough to have a surrogate who shared my perspective on pregnancy. When we first met, she expressed her desire to follow my lead in every aspect. I explained that due to our family's history of diabetes, I would refrain from consuming sugary foods. However, I assured her that if she experienced cravings, I wouldn't want her to feel restricted because I would indulge in those moments too. I made it clear that I preferred organic options, so I provided her with Thrive Market for deliveries and sent her organic products for her home and skincare. Nonetheless, I didn't become overly fixated or controlling. I trusted her responsibility and commitment to doing a stellar job while taking care of our baby.

"I may have been excessive in my affection towards her," Menounos confesses. Photography by John Chapple/MEGA

Receiving a diagnosis of a pancreatic tumor in January must have been utterly frightening, especially knowing that the baby was on the way.

As I gazed at the church icons resting on my mantel, a thought entered my mind. "How can you bestow upon me the blessing of a child, yet fate forbids our meeting?" Tears streamed down my face, accompanied by the rare sight of my husband, Keven, shedding tears too. The anguish was overwhelming, like a haunting dream.

The tumor has been successfully extracted. How do you feel presently?

How do you maintain a positive attitude, given all that you have experienced?

Throughout my life, I have encountered numerous challenging moments, providing me with ample opportunities to develop my skills in overcoming adversity. It is crucial to steer clear from adopting a victim mindset. While many individuals often ponder, "Why me?" I prefer to question, "Why not me?" This perspective allows me to swiftly navigate through difficult situations. The fact that I was able to conquer a tumor is attributed to early detection, a stroke of luck that is not always granted to others. Instead of dwelling on the negative aspects, I make a conscious effort to focus on how I aspire to feel. Although it requires some time and effort, this approach is not without its challenges.

Maria Menounos reveals that despite having a baby in the mix, she and Keven have managed to stay connected after being together for 25 years.

We did one date night already!

Has your relationship changed?

The most significant change for me has been embracing my feminine side. In the past, when I used to travel extensively, Keven would assure me that once we had a baby, I could simply hand them over to him and he would take care of everything. That was the expectation we had, but our roles have truly evolved.

You are thoroughly enjoying the process of nesting.

Do you plan on having more children in the future?

I want 50 more, I have one remaining good embryo. It needs to happen quickly to experience the same joy Athena has brought to our home. It feels incredibly satisfying. Though we've faced challenges, I firmly believe they are in the past, and the best is yet to come.