Lena Dunham told by doctors to 'rest' due to endometriosis struggle

09 Feb 2016

Lena Dunham has announced doctors have told her to 'rest' as she struggles with endometriosis. The 29-year-old revealed in a candid Instagram post that she won't be joining the press tour for the fifth season of Girls in order to recover from a 'rough patch with the illness'.

Lena Dunham revealed doctors told her to 'rest'

"Hey Beloved Pals, I just wanted to let you know that, while I am so excited for Girls to return on Feb 21, I won't be out and about doing press for the new season," she wrote to her 2.3 million followers alongside a photo of her hand.

"As many of you know I have endometriosis, a chronic condition that affects approximately 1 in 10 women's reproductive health. 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.

"That's a hard thing to do, but I'm trying, because all I want is to make season 6 of Girls the best one yet."

Lena won't be joining the press tour for the fifth season of her hit show Girls

The writer and producer went on to explain she felt grateful for being able to take time off, with the full support of both the cast and crew of the popular TV show.

"I'm lucky enough to have support and backup from Jenni, Judd and the whole Girls gang," she continued. "So many women with this disease literally don't have the option of time off and I won't take it for granted. Wishing you all health & happiness, in whatever form suits you. Back soon xxLena,".

It's not the first time the actress has spoken candidly about the condition. In a heartfelt essay penned her newsletter Lenny, Lena opened up about living with endometriosis, but revealed she felt stronger as a person from coping with it.

"But I am strong because of what I've dealt with. I am oddly fearless for a wimp with no upper-body strength," she explained in her . And I am no longer scared of my body. In fact, I listen to it when it speaks. I have no choice but to respect what it tells me, to respect the strength of its voice and the truth of my own."