A new storyline has been revealed for character Ruby Allen after tragically experiencing a miscarriage. EastEnders have worked closely with Endometriosis UK on developing an endometriosis diagnosis storyline for the character Ruby Allen, played by Louisa Lytton.
After suffering a miscarriage, in Thursday’s episode of EastEnders, we saw character Ruby Allen learn she may have the condition endometriosis in a gynaecology appointment. After asking whether or not she had ever seen a doctor, Ruby commented, “No I’ve never needed to, they’ve always been regular, just heavy and painful. Painful before and during my periods, really, but, well, you just get on with it, don’t you?”
The storyline comes after Ruby (played by Louisa Lytton) miscarries after a fall following a row with Stacey Slater (played by Lacey Turner).
‘’It’s a huge step forward to see EastEnders tackle endometriosis head on, a UK soap first that will no doubt help end the stigmas associated with the condition. We’re delighted to have been working closely with EastEnders on this story (1/2) @EastEndersPress https://t.co/SmwfKYcXEb
— Endometriosis UK (@EndometriosisUK) March 24, 2021
After working closely with charity Endometriosis UK, Faye Farthing Communications and Campaigns Manager for the charity said, “It’s a huge step forward to see EastEnders tackle endometriosis head on, a UK soap first that will no doubt help end the stigmas associated with the condition. We’re delighted to have been working closely with EastEnders on this story, and hope it will go a long way in removing the taboos and help anyone experiencing symptoms feel empowered to seek help – as the latest statistics show 64% of women aged 16-24 have never heard of endometriosis and 80% would put off going to the doctor with symptoms.”
“The soap will hopefully raise awareness around the condition”
Endometriosis is a gynaecological condition affecting 1 in 10 individuals born with a womb where endometriosis tissue grows on other organs and acts in the same way as the lining of the uterus. The condition can cause excruciatingly heavy periods, pain during sex, pelvic pain and fertility issues.
In a Loose Women interview, actress Louisa Lytton revealed that we will see her character eventually diagnosed with the condition. Over the next few months, the show will delve into what it’s like to live with the condition and the problems it can cause, especially around fertility.
The soap will hopefully raise awareness around the condition and expose the realities for those living with it.
Neve Gordon-Farleigh
If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please seek advice from your GP or Endometriosis UK.
Featured image courtesy of Sharon McCutcheon from Pixabay. Image licence can be found here. No changes were made to this image.