Irina Shayk says women ‘can handle anything’ as she opens up about motherhood

‘Why should you have to change who you are and how you feel just because you become a mother?’

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Irina Shayk has spoken about the misconceptions surrounding motherhood, saying that she doesn’t understand why women should have to change their identities when they have children.

Last month, it was reported that the model had separated from actor Bradley Cooper following a four-year relationship, although neither have yet publicly confirmed their separation.

The celebrity couple first started dating in spring 2015, and share a two-year-old daughter, named Lea de Seine.

In a new interview with Harper’s Bazaar, Shayk shot down the notion that women should have to change the way they act and dress when they become mothers.

“Tell me one reason why, just because you’re a mother, you need to wear a longer skirt. No! I don’t believe in that. I really don’t,” the 33-year-old told the publication.

“How is it that people think of this idea?” Shayk added.

“Why should you have to change who you are and how you feel just because you become a mother? I’m like, tell me why.

“Tell me one reason! I don’t believe in that. I don’t understand why.”

The model continued, saying that she believes there is “no real challenge” to motherhood, as, in her opinion, “if you love something, you can prioritise your time”.

“Women are the ones who can handle everything,” Shayk stated.

“Women can raise the kids, women can do the job, and when she’s back, she can cook and clean and do the heavy work too!”

Over the past four years, Cooper and Shayk have become known for keeping the details of their relationship private.

In February, Shayk explained to Glamour UK that doing so is a “personal choice”.

“I have a lot of friends who share a lot of their personal life on Instagram or social media, very publicly,” the model said.

“I admire it and I think it’s great – but I think it’s all about personal choice.”