Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has opened up about her thoughts on motherhood, following her recent decision to freeze her eggs. The New York Democrat, aged 36, discussed the complexities of balancing career and family life, emphasizing that there is never a ‘right time’ for having children. This perspective was highlighted when she was asked if she planned to have children while in office.

Challenges of Starting a Family

Ocasio-Cortez talked about the practical hurdles associated with starting a family while working. She shared her thoughts on making life decisions that align with the bigger picture of her life beyond politics. She mentioned childcare expenses as a significant barrier, even though she considers herself more privileged than many Americans.

I make decisions about my whole life. It’s not ever just in a career context. It’s about how do I fit all of these things.

She expressed her desire to explore life beyond political aspirations, indicating that her ambitions include love and family.

Decisions on Relationships

When asked about dating someone with conservative views, Ocasio-Cortez stated that she would probably not do so. She noted the importance of shared values in relationships, emphasizing that political differences reflect foundational personal values.

I think a lot of politics sometimes, at least for me, is about values and being aligned.

Why Egg Freezing?

Ocasio-Cortez’s decision to freeze her eggs aims to provide her with greater control over her reproductive choices. She documented parts of the process through social media. By sharing her experience, she hopes to educate women about fertility preservation and its associated costs. The procedure, excluding health insurance coverage, is expected to cost her around $8,000 to $9,000.

She criticized the fertility-care system, pointing out that high costs limit reproductive choices for many Americans. Ocasio-Cortez encouraged women considering egg freezing to explore different clinics and pricing options.

Personal and Political Future

Speculation continues about Ocasio-Cortez’s political future, including a potential presidential run in 2028. She has not made any formal announcements but emphasized that her ambitions are not limited to political offices. Her recent comments underscore that family considerations are a factor in her future plans. Egg freezing may offer her additional flexibility in family planning.

Trends in Egg Freezing

Egg freezing has gained popularity in the U.S. A study by UCLA Health revealed a substantial increase in planned elective egg-freezing cycles between 2014 and 2021. The average age for the procedure has decreased, indicating a trend towards younger women opting for egg freezing.

While the procedure provides more options for family planning, it does not ensure future pregnancy due to age-related declines in egg quality and quantity. Ocasio-Cortez’s actions reflect her interest in keeping her options open for the future, including the possibility of having a family.