EastEnders’ Rita Simons reveals major surgery after ‘difficult conversation’ with her doctor

RITA Simons has revealed she underwent major surgery after having a "difficult conversation" with her doctor.

Earlier this month the 45-year-old actress told fans she'd had a £2000 Cinderella facelift.

Now the former EastEnders star has opened up about having a total radical hysterectomy after debilitating periods and hormones caused a spike in her OCD and anxiety.

Recalling the conversation with her doctor, Rita said: "The doctor said, ‘The only option is to remove everything'."

Sharing her heartbreak at being unable to have more children because of the operation, she added to : "Health comes first.

"I feel like it’s all been an attack on my femininity but my good mental health is good for my kids, it’s good for [her partner] Ben."

Rita is currently recovering after having her cervix, womb and ovaries removed and is being supported by boyfriend Ben Harlow.

She continued: "I’ve been to hell and back and round the block again, and I’m pretty sure if it wasn’t for Ben I wouldn’t be where I am today."

Discussing her decision to have a Cinderella facelift, Rita confessed last week she wanted to combat ageing.

She said: "I’m horrified at the before picture. I just wanted to feel like me again – like my old self – and I do.

"I feel great again now. I feel like I can hold my head up high.”