Women pursue sterilization surgeries over political fears, citing Trump’s election as a turning point

Growing trend reflects anxiety about reproductive rights

A rising number of women, including public figures like OnlyFans creator Eden Ixora, are opting for sterilization surgeries, citing political concerns and fears of restricted reproductive rights under a potential second Trump administration. The trend highlights growing anxiety among women about their autonomy following Trump’s recent election victory.

Personal stories illustrate the decision’s complexity

Eden Ixora, 25, from Florida, explained her decision to undergo a bilateral salpingectomy as a preemptive measure. “For me, the idea of getting pregnant is worse than death,” she told Newsweek. Another woman, Lydia Echols, 28, from Texas, expressed similar sentiments, stating, “If I am to be denied any rights in the next four years, I will not give them up without a fight.”

A 39-year-old woman who recently underwent sterilization described feeling forced into the procedure due to the political climate: “The election tied my hands and forced me to be sterilized—that is horrible.”

Influence of cultural narratives and online communities

Many women point to dystopian narratives like The Handmaid’s Tale as reflective of their fears. Online communities, such as the “childfree” subreddit, have also fueled discussions about sterilization, with some women as young as 21 expressing a desire to undergo the procedure.

One Reddit user commented, “When you pass laws that murder women on a regular basis, what are you going to do?” Others lamented financial barriers to accessing sterilization.

Alternative protest movements emerge

Beyond sterilization, some women have adopted other forms of protest. The South Korean-inspired “4B” movement—rejecting sex, marriage, dating men, and childbirth—has gained traction on platforms like TikTok. Some participants have also shaved their heads in a symbolic rejection of patriarchal norms.

Criticism and mixed reactions

The movement has faced ridicule online, with critics calling it “cringe” and accusing participants of seeking attention. However, supporters argue that these measures reflect deep-seated fears about the future of reproductive rights in the U.S.

Trump’s stance on abortion and reproductive rights

While Trump has taken credit for overturning Roe v. Wade, he has publicly opposed a federal abortion ban, stating he would veto such legislation. His wife, Melania Trump, has also expressed strong support for abortion rights, calling individual freedom a “fundamental principle.”

Wider implications

As reproductive rights remain a contentious issue, the growing trend of sterilization and other forms of protest underscores the significant personal and political stakes for many women in the U.S. today.