Comedian Fatiha El-Ghorri has publicly disclosed her diagnosis of endometrial cancer and the subsequent hysterectomy she underwent last May. The 44-year-old star of Taskmaster took to Instagram on Sunday to share her personal health journey, revealing that the experience has led her into a 'medical menopause' that she describes as profoundly difficult to manage.
Diagnosis and Surgical Intervention
A year prior to her surgery, Fatiha underwent a transvaginal scan as part of a routine health check-up. This internal examination of the womb detected an abnormality, prompting her GP to recommend urgent further tests. Fatiha recounted the conversation, stating, 'He said that the scan showed something abnormal in my womb and I would need to undergo further tests urgently. He said it’s possible that it isn’t cancer but the only way we could know for sure is if I had the operation.'
In May, she proceeded with a hysterectomy and made the decision to have her ovaries removed simultaneously. She explained her reasoning, noting, 'I knew that if it was cancer and I still had my ovaries, I’d need chemo and more possible surgery.' The surgery confirmed her worst fears: she had stage 1 endometrial cancer. Fortunately, the cancer had not spread beyond her womb, allowing for complete removal without the need for chemotherapy, additional treatment, or further surgery.
The Challenge of Medical Menopause
Fatiha emphasized that the 'forced menopause' resulting from her surgery has been more challenging than the operation itself. She faced a seven-month wait to secure a specialist menopause appointment, during which she struggled with severe symptoms. She detailed, 'People think the menopause is hot flushes and mood swings but it’s so much more than that. It’s low mood, vaginal dryness (to the point where it’s painful), change in appetite, dry skin, change in hair, depression, memory problems – to name just a few!'
Due to the delays in public healthcare, she eventually sought private medical care. Her doctor provided vitamins and supplements that significantly alleviated her symptoms. Fatiha stressed the seriousness of menopause, asserting, 'We have to do more, menopause ain’t a joke. It changes your life forever, physically, mentally and hormonally.'
Recovery and Emotional Impact
The post-surgery recovery period was exceptionally tough for Fatiha. She underwent keyhole surgery, leaving five cuts across her abdomen. She described the aftermath, saying, 'Post surgery was really hard. I couldn’t do anything for myself. Basic stuff was impossible like sitting upright, coughing, sneezing, laughing and going to the toilet. I couldn’t lift anything, pick up anything off the floor or do my shoelaces. I wasn’t able to bend at the waist until Christmas.'
This physical helplessness led to feelings of shame and reluctance to share her experience beyond a close circle of trusted individuals. She admitted, 'At first, I felt shame after my operation. I felt so helpless and this made me feel ashamed. I didn’t want to tell anyone outside of my chosen people what had happened to me.'
Through her candid disclosure, Fatiha El-Ghorri aims to raise awareness about endometrial cancer, the realities of surgical menopause, and the importance of timely medical support for women facing similar health challenges.
