Ocasio-Cortez Discusses Backlash Over Egg-Freezing Journey

In a recent statement, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez talked about the “negativity” she has encountered after sharing her egg-freezing experience. Despite facing criticism, she maintained that she has no regrets about making her journey public.

The representative from the Bronx-Queens, who is suspected to be eyeing a run for higher office in 2028, expressed that the intense scrutiny comes from the sexist double standards she has experienced since her rapid ascent in politics.

“The answer is simply no,” Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) responded on Instagram when asked about regrets. “I was born a woman. I can’t control that and I don’t want to change that.”

She further articulated her stance, saying that whether she shares her experiences or keeps them private, negative opinions and judgments will likely follow her simply for being a woman. To her, it makes sense to share, as it could help others.

On August 8, she revealed her decision to freeze her eggs and began posting updates on social media to keep her followers informed about the process.

Ocasio-Cortez framed her choice to go public as an opportunity to inspire and inform other women regarding their reproductive options. The announcement also contributed to speculation about her relationship status with fiancé Riley Roberts, which, although unconfirmed, sources indicate ended some time ago.

In a further Instagram post, she lamented, “I have been the subject of personal scrutiny and dissection ever since I won my first primary election, almost unexpectedly to the national media, at the age of 28.”

She added, “It’s no secret that this case was handled in a manner that my male colleagues have not faced.” Ocasio-Cortez concluded by acknowledging that she possesses a certain resilience to the negative emotions tied to such scrutiny.