BBC presenter and documentary maker Stacey Dooley has bravely shared the terrifying details of a medical emergency that saw her rushed into surgery for an ectopic pregnancy. The 36-year-old television personality underwent the procedure just weeks ago, a traumatic event she has now revealed to her followers.
In a heartfelt post on her Instagram stories, Dooley explained the situation with characteristic candour. "I had an ectopic pregnancy and needed emergency surgery," she wrote, accompanied by a poignant photo of her hospital identification band. The presenter emphasised the physical and emotional toll of the experience, describing it as "a really long and draining journey."
The Silent Danger of Ectopic Pregnancies
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilised egg implants itself outside of the womb, most commonly in one of the fallopian tubes. This creates a life-threatening situation for the mother as the pregnancy cannot develop normally and can cause internal bleeding if not treated promptly.
Dooley's decision to speak out shines a crucial light on this often-silent women's health issue. Her platform has become a vehicle for raising awareness about the signs and symptoms of ectopic pregnancies, which affect approximately 1 in 90 pregnancies in the UK.
A Support System During Crisis
Throughout the ordeal, Stacey has been supported by her partner, former Strictly Come Dancing professional Kevin Clifton. The couple, who welcomed their first child, Minnie, in January 2023, have faced this challenge together while navigating the complexities of expanding their family.
The presenter expressed gratitude for the medical care she received but also acknowledged the emotional devastation that follows pregnancy loss. "I'm actually doing fine, just really sad and pretty tired," she shared with her audience, striking a balance between resilience and vulnerability.
Turning Personal Trauma into Public Awareness
By choosing to make her private medical emergency public, Dooley continues her longstanding commitment to tackling difficult subjects. Known for her hard-hitting documentaries on issues ranging from fast fashion to child labour, she now brings her journalistic approach to women's health advocacy.
Her openness provides comfort to thousands of women who experience similar pregnancy complications each year, helping to destigmatise conversations around pregnancy loss and maternal health emergencies.
