In a powerful interview on Roda Viva, aired on May 5, 2025, acclaimed Brazilian actress Paolla Oliveira made a bold statement defending a woman's right to choose abortion. "I am in favor," she declared, emphasizing that the legal issues surrounding abortion need to be revisited. For Oliveira, this is not merely a legal matter but a deeply personal one, rooted in the autonomy of women over their bodies.
Oliveira, who is currently starring as Heleninha in the remake of the popular soap opera Vale Tudo, reflected on her own life choices, revealing that she does not plan to become a mother at this stage in her life. "I consider a future without children," she stated, underscoring her belief that every woman should have the opportunity to make that choice. She further noted that the ability to have an abortion safely and legally is a fundamental right that must be protected.
Throughout the interview, Oliveira also opened up about her personal journey regarding motherhood. She has frozen her eggs, allowing herself the possibility of changing her mind in the future. This decision reflects a growing trend among women who seek to take control of their reproductive choices without succumbing to societal pressures. "I gave myself the opportunity to choose, which not all women have," she remarked, highlighting the importance of autonomy in women's reproductive rights.
The actress candidly discussed the societal pressures she has faced as a woman who is not a mother. Oliveira recalled feeling judged and labeled as "less family" for her decision not to have children, sharing a painful experience where she lost a job opportunity due to these biases. "I was considered 'less family' for not being a mother. How can that be? I live for my family," she reflected, illustrating the stigma that women often encounter when they deviate from traditional roles.
Oliveira's comments resonate with many women who have experienced similar pressures. She expressed that she no longer feels ashamed of her choices, stating, "I don't have shame about the choice at this moment." This shift in perspective is significant, as it reflects a broader cultural change where women are increasingly asserting their rights to make personal decisions about their lives.
Moreover, Oliveira criticized the narrow view of women's roles in society, which often reduces them to mere reproductive bodies. She emphasized the importance of recognizing women's independence and agency, stating, "I have been judged as insensitive, bitter. I felt less of a woman, less family-oriented." Her remarks serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the need to challenge outdated perceptions of femininity.
In addition to discussing motherhood and abortion, Oliveira touched on the pressures of societal beauty standards. She described a transformative moment in her life that empowered her to speak out against the policing of women's bodies. "I needed to find a place of liberation," she said, speaking about her journey to self-acceptance and body positivity. This experience has fueled her desire to advocate for women to embrace their individuality and reject societal norms that dictate how they should look or behave.
Oliveira's candidness about her experiences highlights the complexities of being a woman in today's society. She noted that many women are pushed into roles that limit their potential and self-expression. "I learned to like myself and to appreciate other women with different kinds of beauty," she said, emphasizing the importance of solidarity among women in the face of societal pressures.
As the conversation progressed, Oliveira drew parallels between her character Heleninha and the real-life experiences of women who find themselves losing their identities in relationships. "We can't abandon ourselves. Life has a multiplicity of paths," she advised, encouraging women to maintain their sense of self and not to sacrifice their aspirations for the sake of others.
This interview has sparked discussions across social media, with many praising Oliveira for her bravery in addressing these critical issues. Her stance on abortion rights and the importance of personal choice resonates with a growing movement advocating for women's rights in Brazil and beyond. With her platform, Oliveira is not only challenging societal norms but also inspiring others to voice their opinions and experiences.
In summary, Paolla Oliveira's interview on Roda Viva serves as a significant moment in the ongoing conversation about women's rights, reproductive choices, and societal pressures. By sharing her personal journey and advocating for change, Oliveira is helping to pave the way for a future where women can feel empowered to make choices that align with their values and desires. As she aptly put it, "A relationship has to be a sum, not a devotion. It makes no sense to abandon what you do, the things you love, your self-esteem for anyone." This powerful message is a call to action for women everywhere to reclaim their voices and choices.
