The Only Way Is Essex star Lauren Goodger has given her followers an up, close and personal look at her hernia injury that is not for the faint of heart.
The reality TV star, 37, has shared details about her ‘swollen’ and infected hernia which she has described as the ‘most painful thing ever.’
According to the NHS, a hernia occurs when an internal part of the body pushes through a weakness in the muscle or surrounding tissue wall.
Sharing a snap of her swollen stomach, Goodger said the ordeal has left her feeling ‘scared and in pain’ as she has been prescribed antibiotics to combat the infection.
Posting on her Instagram Stories, she recalled being diagnosed with a small hernia following the birth of her second child, Lorena in 2022, who tragically died shortly after birth.
‘Sorry to anyone trying to get hold of me I’ve been very slow on dms and emails due to a health issue…,’ she began in the lengthy post.
‘When I gave birth to Lorena it was a very quick 2 hours traumatic labour which left me with a small hernia in my belly button I had it checked privately last year and it was not to worry about, so I kept it as surgery wasn’t needed.. 2 days ago I woke up with pain and swelling but I felt ok in myself so I carried on day to day and filmed and went gym over the last 2 days haven’t had a minute.. but last night I was in a lot of pain and today it’s really hot and red and much more swollen and I’m in a lot of discomfort.. so I’ve seen a doctor today it’s got an infection which is causing me a few other issues.
‘So currently on antibiotics and trying to rest I’ve got Larose here with some help as that’s so full on as all mums know with no help day to day and I’m trying not to rupture the hernia anymore..so just wanted let everyone know if I’m behind with urgent things I am just taking time out to get better and hopefully the antibiotics work! But if I get worse and fall unwell I will need surgery.’
In a second post, she shared how she is on ‘a major health kick’ and cutting out foods that can ‘irritate’ the hernia.
Goodger continued: ‘So I’m on a MAJOR health kick due to health reasons I need to not eat any processed foods or anything that will irritate the hernia going forward as I don’t really want to have surgery especially being a mum on own it’s 2 weeks recovering time and my anxiety is too bad to go under and the after care etc. I’ve had it for 2 years so far and no issues! But obviously it can be dangerous if it’s infectioned or ruptured.
Symptoms of a hernia
According to the NHS, symptoms of a hernia differ depending on the type of hernia you have.
The types include:
- Inguinal hernias
- Femoral hernias
- Umbilical hernias
- Hiatus hernias
You should seek medical advice if you experience:
- Sudden, severe pain
- Being sick
- Difficulty pooing or passing wind
- The hernia becomes firm or tender, or cannot be pushed back in
‘So fingers crossed these antibiotics work and takes away the swelling and infection I will be continuing training (once this is cleared) and my diet will be strict and this is for health reasons not for body image. I really want clear up this infection and get back to life. Right now I’m scared and in pain and just keeping an eye on signs that can be dangerous. Thanks.’
She then shared a picture of her stomach, showing the bulging hernia and saying she ‘looks and feels nine months pregnant.’
‘My hernia I Look and feel 9 months pregnant honestly the most painful thing ever!’ she continued.
‘I’m so swollen and this belly button is literally inside out, the red ring it’s burning hot on skin! Praying it clears goes back to normal when the antibiotics kick in.’
Goodger also shared snaps of her making a very green smoothie with vegetables amid her recovery from the health ordeal.