Ulrika Jonsson Undergoes Third Varicose Vein Procedure in Hospital
Television personality Ulrika Jonsson has provided a remarkably frank health update after being admitted to hospital for her third varicose vein treatment. The 58-year-old presenter took to Instagram on Friday, February 13th, to post photographs from her hospital bed, clad in a medical gown and compression stockings, while offering an unvarnished account of what she described as a decidedly unglamorous medical ordeal.
Painful Procedure and Candid Recovery Details
Ulrika disclosed that she had undergone treatment to eliminate varicose veins, acknowledging the procedure was "painful, uncomfortable and not the sexiest thing in the world" but ultimately worthwhile. In her caption, she explained this operation marked her third experience with the treatment, positioning herself as something of a veteran in this medical field.
She wrote: "Under strict instruction from my occasional therapist who told me I needed to get out of my comfort zone, I decided on a day out to get my varicose veins done. I'm somewhat of a veteran in this field - this was the third (and final) time. Last visit was 21 years ago."
Ulrika elaborated on the modern techniques employed, noting: "Nowadays they not only hook the swines out but 'microwave' and 'foam' the blighters." Despite the discomfort, she indicated the result had been encouraging, even if recuperation proved less than agreeable.
Complex Surgery and Recovery Challenges
The TV star described the procedure as complex but successful, though she detailed the unpleasant recovery aspects: "Aside from my legs being suffocated by surgical stockings and bleeding like vertical colanders, having someone make me a cheese and ham toastie, was a bit of a treat."
Ulrika specifically commended her medical consultant, stating: "It's painful, uncomfortable and not the sexiest thing in the world but grateful for my amazing Consultant, Mr Northeast."
She also revealed details about a previous pioneering treatment she underwent in October: "Back in Oct I had a pioneering treatment to try to stem the flow of blood to the legs by going in through my jugular vein - whilst I was awake - and passing a wire down to the pelvic area to embolise the veins that are feeding the legs. Had this done 21 years ago first time, too. Bonkers."
Eight-Day Recovery Period Ahead
The television personality disclosed she has been instructed to rest for eight days following the operation, though she confessed keeping to that schedule might prove challenging. "So that's me for the next 8 days, strapped in blood soaked stockings and trying my hardest to sit on my fat arse and take it easy. Fat chance. Send healing vibes and baked goods," she quipped humorously.
Context: Recent Sobriety Journey
This hospital admission follows just weeks after Ulrika discussed a pivotal moment in her struggle with alcohol dependency on Spencer Matthews' podcast UNTAPPED. She recalled a heartbreaking telephone conversation with her closest friend that compelled her to confront her drinking problem.
She remembered: "It was awful. My best friend phoned me on a Saturday morning... 'I couldn't understand a fucking word you said. You have a problem and I can't help you.'" Ulrika confessed the conversation left her profoundly affected, saying: "I still didn't stop drinking... because that was so shaming."
She has since credited that moment with saving her life. Now more than a year sober, Ulrika has spoken extensively about how quitting alcohol transformed her wellbeing. In a previous open letter, she wrote: "It was a hangover day... wrapped up in the blanket of shame, and something made me reach out for help."
Ulrika Jonsson's candid sharing of both her medical procedures and personal struggles continues to resonate with followers who appreciate her honest approach to health challenges and recovery journeys.
