Ruby Allen will battle endometriosis as part of a new storyline in EastEnders playing out over the coming months.
The condition, which goes widely undiagnosed in the UK but affects 1 in 10 women during their lifetime, can cause symptoms including painful periods and sex, bowel problems, depression and infertility.
Ruby (Louisa Lytton) has just suffered a miscarriage in the soap and in tomorrow night's episode, she and husband Martin (James Bye) are informed that she may be suffering from endometriosis.
The storyline - drafted in conjunction with the Endometriosis UK organisation - will see the couple coming to terms with the condition as it affects their future plans together.
"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," said Faye Farthing, comms manager for Endometriosis UK.
"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 latest statistics show 62% of women aged 16-24 have never heard of endometriosis and 80% would put off going to the doctor with symptoms."
A double bill of EastEnders airs Thursday night from 7.40pm on BBC One.
> Click here for this week's EastEnders storylines
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