Star Wars actress Daisy Ridley has revealed that she suffers from endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome in an inspiring Instagram post that encourages her followers to look after their bodies.
The 24-year-old, who played Rey in last year's re-boot The Force Awakens, explained that she was diagnosed with endometriosis at the age of 15, which left her confidence 'in tatters.'
Shared a smiling image of herself wearing a clay face mask, she wrote:
'At 15 I was diagnosed with endometriosis. One laparoscopy, many consultations and 8 years down the line, pain was back (more mild this time!) and my skin was THE WORST. I've tried everything: products, antibiotics, more products, more antibiotics) and all that did was left my body in a bit of a mess.'
'Finally found out I have polycystic ovaries and that's why it's bad. I can safely say feeling so self conscious has left my confidence in tatters. I hate wearing make up but I currently don't want to leave the house without it on.'
Endometriosis and polycystic ovaries are common gynaelogical disorders, each estimated to affect around one in ten women.
The cause of endometriosis is unknown: symptoms include heavy, painful periods and abdominal pain. PCOS, meanwhile, is caused by a hormonal inbalance, with symptoms including irregular periods and bad skin.
Luckily, Daisy reveals that she has been able to make some progress with her symptoms.
'HOWEVER PROGRESS IS BEING MADE! (With some help from a dermatologist and cutting out dairy (waah, except for spontaneous ice creams) and cutting down sugar (bigger waah but gotta do what you've gotta do)). Finally. Finally.'
The actress finished her post with an inspiring message of self-care to her followers, writing 'My point is, to any of you who are suffering with anything, go to a doctor; pay for a specialist; get your hormones tested, get allergy testing; keep on top of how your body is feeling and don't worry about sounding like a hypochondriac. From your head to the tips of your toes we only have one body, let us all make sure ours are working in tip top condition, and take help if it's needed.'
It's not the first time that Daisy has used her Instagram account to post candid messages: she's previously used the platform to speak out about body-shaming and self-esteem. A lightsaber-wielding, Force-using role model? We couldn't love Daisy more right now.
**READ MORE: Watch Daisy Ridley's Emotional Star Wars Audition
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