X Factor star Ella Henderson shares 'devastating' diagnosis after years of suffering

Ella Henderson has revealed her diagnosis with endometriosis, calling it both “devastating” and “validating” after years of unexplained pain. The 29-year-old X Factor alum shared the news on Instagram, opening up about the emotional and physical toll of the condition that left her doubting her own reality.

The NHS defines Endometriosis as "a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside of it, most commonly in the pelvis, around the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and lining of the pelvis. This misplaced tissue can cause inflammation, pain, and potentially fertility issue."

In a video announcing her diagnosis, the Ghost singer admitted: “The last few years have been a bit of a rollercoaster to say the least, behind the scenes and I've really really been struggling… with not only stomach bloating and physical pain and mental health, because at one point I thought all this pain was in my head and I wasn't really believed."

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She detailed years of appointments and unanswered symptoms before finally receiving a diagnosis in January: “After years of struggling with confusing and challenging health problems including stomach bloating, bowel pain and heavy periods.

"Plus countless GP appointments leading to scans, tests and the feeling that maybe the pain was all in my head, I was officially diagnosed with Endometriosis in January this year.”

A laparoscopy revealed severe endometriosis and scarring behind her uterus, affecting both bladder and bowel.

Ella continued: “For those who are unfamiliar with this condition (just like I was only months ago) – endometriosis occurs when cells similar to the ones in the lining of the womb are found elsewhere in the body.”

Despite the difficulty of hearing the diagnosis, Henderson found relief in knowing the cause of her suffering: “The diagnosis was a difficult one to swallow but on the other hand it feels validating and empowering. It meant I wasn't imagining things after all, and I could finally find a way forward and take control of my body.”

She also highlighted the broader issue, noting how long many endure before getting answers: “My long journey to an endometriosis diagnosis is not unique. It takes on average up to 9 years in the UK, which for many like me, can put an immense mental and physical toll on you.”

Ella spoke candidly about the psychological impact: “Living in chronic pain, not being believed, and constant misdiagnosis led to periods of depression, isolation and anxiety. If health practitioners had recognised my endometriosis symptoms sooner, I might all that have been spared.”

Surgery has already improved her symptoms significantly. However, she emphasised that management is not a cure and that her treatment will be ongoing.

“Although it took a long time (like many women out there) to finally get a definitive diagnosis, it has allowed me to receive appropriate and life-changing support.

"Which, in my case, was surgery, that so far helped to significantly reduce my symptoms. Unfortunately, there is no actual cure for endometriosis,” she added, “so ongoing management will likely be part of my life, whether that's through lifestyle changes, pain management, or other treatments."

Ella's post drew an outpouring of support from fans and fellow celebrities alike as they labelled her as 'brave' for sharing her diagnosis.

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