Rita Simons has opened up about having a total hysterectomy earlier this year.
The former EastEnders star, 45, underwent the procedure in January after suffering “debilitating” periods, which left her with severe depression and struggling to work.
Simons marked International Women’s Day by sharing her account of her hysterectomy on Instagram, and described the experience as a “f***in ride”.
The actress posted a throwback photo of herself in hospital as she wrote: “7 weeks ago tomorrow I had a total hysterectomy. Nothing says #happyinternationalwomensday like me sharing a pic of me off my nut on morphine with no ovaries!
“It’s been an absolute RIDE trying to get the #HRT as close to my old self as we can find. It’s STILL a fkn ride!”
Simons said she hasn’t fully recovered yet, but is making great progress.
She continued: “Not there yet but on my way. Physically I have been really strict getting back into the gym and having my regular IV drips.
“Physically I couldn’t be in better nick thanks to @nutrizen_iv_vitamins and my #nad+ and I have been in touch with so many gorgeous women who’ve reached out with their own #hysterectomy stories which keeps me from feeling alone in this.”
Simons ended her post by writing: “Happy #internationalwomensday to all my ladies.”
Fans and famous friends flocked to the comment section to praise Simons for being open about her procedure and recovery, following her latest update.
Simons’ former EastEnders co-star Jessie Wallace wrote: “But your skin looks AMAZING JOAN! That’s the most most important thing!”
Coronation Street actress Sair Khan added: “Rita!! Hope you’re recovering well. Sending love you kick-ass strong as hell Queen”.
Simons had a total hysterectomy, which removes the womb and cervix, and now faces menopause.
The TV star admitted that she had mixed feelings shortly after the procedure in January, as she said she initially felt like the surgery was “an attack on my femininity”.
Simons said at the time: “It’s a really strange thing because you don’t think you’d be that bothered until you’re in that situation, and then suddenly you’re like, ‘What if I do want kids in five years?"
The EastEnders star concluded that the surgery was overall the best option, despite her concerns, as she must put her “health first” for the sake of herself and her family.
