July 14, 2025, 10:42 am | Read time: 3 minutes
It’s undoubtedly insensitive to ask someone if they would like to be pregnant. Yet, this question is repeatedly posed, especially to women in the public eye. Influencer and former “Germany’s Next Topmodel” contestant Darya Strelnikova has a clear stance on the issue of inquiries about wanting children.
Heidi Klum called her the “biggest diva of all time.” Or was Darya Strelnikova just being honest back then? Known for her straightforwardness, she recently spoke candidly about her thoughts on being asked about her desire for children, setting an inspiring boundary.
Overview
Darya Strelnikova Finds Clear Words
“Please stop asking such questions. It’s intrusive–and frankly, just disrespectful.” With these honest words, Dubai-based influencer Darya Strelnikova responded to the question of whether she wants children, and if so, how many. The question arose during a Q&A session on her Instagram account.
However, it wasn’t the first time the 32-year-old was asked to discuss her desire for children. She shared her statement in an Instagram story, which is only online for 24 hours. It begins with: “This question comes up in every Q&A session–and I’m saying it clearly now: The desire for children is a sensitive and very personal topic.” The former GNTM contestant, who placed fifth in 2015, explains: “Just because someone is in the public eye doesn’t mean such questions are okay.” You never know what someone else is going through. In the end, she appeals for more sensitivity. But that’s not all.
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Round 2: Criticism on Criticism!
Darya Strelnikova’s call for more sensitivity regarding the topic of wanting children was met with criticism. An Instagram user explained that the model is in a long-term relationship and has emigrated, so she shouldn’t be surprised by the question. There’s nothing disrespectful about the question; it’s “merely understandable,” the user wrote to her in a private message.
This prompted the influencer, who has been in a relationship with Fabio Knez since 2023, to elaborate further. She shared the message in another story. Many justify the question about wanting children simply because someone has a partner. “Whether someone wants children, can have them, or not–that’s private. Period. And honestly? This question is almost never asked when you’re single,” Strelnikova articulates. This highlights that the question about wanting children is not about genuine interest but rather societal expectations.
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Darya Strelnikova Sets Important Boundary
The dialogue about the question of wanting children highlights the importance of boundaries. Even though Darya Strelnikova is a reality star–and met her fiancé on the show “Are You The One”–there are private topics she believes should remain private. The desire for children is one of them. The model makes it clear that the question leaves a mark, no matter who asks it, “especially when you’re already struggling or have enough on your plate.” For many women who either cannot become pregnant, have been trying for a long time, or simply do not want to, this seemingly harmless question can cause immense pressure and discomfort.
Besides, the question demands an intimate glimpse into future planning. Whether to start a family or not is often a lengthy decision-making process that can also present potential conflicts within partnerships. To gain insight into this decision-making process, there must be a strong foundation of trust–if the individuals involved even want to discuss it. And this trust is definitely not present between an anonymous follower and an influencer.