One of my favorite things about Lena Dunham is how honest she is. She's unapologetically herself — which has resulted in her acquiring just as many critics as she has fans. The Girls star has been open about everything from mental health to political beliefs. Plus, the 29-year-old doesn't shy away from discussing her endometriosis — a painful disorder where the tissue that normally grows inside the uterus grows outside of it, according to the Mayo Clinic. This chronic condition affects one in 10 women. Recently, this led to the actor needing emergency medical attention. On Saturday, Dunham was hospitalized for a ruptured ovarian cyst and needed to have surgery. Luckily, she is doing better and is on the mend. She posted an Instagram on Monday morning, letting fans know she's out of the hospital and thanking them for their support. She wrote,
Thank you so much for the love. I'm safely out of the hospital and recuperating. Your well wishes mean the world. I can't wait to be up and active, and to show my thanks.always your girl, Lena
Honestly, I think it's admirable how open she is about her health struggles. In her sharing her story, it may help others feel less ashamed about their own bodily issues, or perhaps inspire them to visit the doctor if something seems off. Dunham is always focusing on self-care and putting herself first (but not in a self-absorbed Hannah Horvath way). Instead, she recently took time off from promoting the new season of Girls to focus on her health. That's a big deal to step away from publicizing your own show to focus on getting better.
At the time, she wrote, "I am currently going through a rough patch with the illness and my body (along with my amazing doctors) let me know, in no uncertain terms, that it's time to rest." Not only is that a valuable message tot spread, but she was aware of her position of privilege, adding, "So many women with this disease literally don't have the option of time off and I won't take it for granted." It's important to listen to your body and take care of it when something feels amiss.
That wasn't the only time she spoke out about her health. In a November edition of Lenny Letter, the e-newsletter that she runs with her BFF Jenni Konner, Dunham penned a personal essay about endometriosis. Afterward, she shared why talking about the chronic condition is worthwhile. Along with a photo of a glittery uterus cake, she wrote on Instagram,
So moved by all of you who have responded to @lennyletter #8 in which we talk about endometriosis and chronic pain. You all make me feel like part of a very cool club rather than a sad crampy loner. Let's remember we are in it together and our reproductive organs deserve the same attention as their male counterparts! Let's keep the dialogue going and never shroud ourselves in secrecy. Shrouds of secrecy are for the birds!!!
That very message sums up why talking about women's reproductive health matters. It can serve as a reminder that no one's struggling alone, as well as start a dialogue that can build support and lead to proper medical attention.
So thank you, Lena, for your honesty — and get well soon!
