TV icon Lorraine Kelly has finally opened up about the health scare that led to her sudden disappearance from screens – revealing a burst ovarian cyst caused “terrible, terrible pain” and led to an emergency operation.
The 65-year-old presenter returned to ITV’s Lorraine show this morning (May 19), where she sat down with Dr Hilary Jones – in a role-reversal interview – to explain her recent ordeal.
Lorraine shared that while flying home from India, she was struck with unbearable pain mid-flight. “It was an ovarian cyst that had burst,” she explained. “When I say discomfort, Jesus, you know I’m stoic, but it was horrible.”
Following a scan, doctors discovered one of her ovaries looked suspicious. To reduce cancer risk, she underwent emergency keyhole surgery to remove both her ovaries and fallopian tubes. “It gave me peace of mind,” she said, adding: “It’s best to just get it out completely.”
Dr Hilary noted the cyst could have become cancerous, especially after menopause, so surgery was a precautionary life-saving measure.
Lorraine only spent one night in hospital and is now recovering at home with help from her husband, Steve. “He’s been doing everything. I’m not allowed to vacuum or anything,” she joked.
While Lorraine admitted she hasn’t been emotionally impacted by the ovary removal – “the baby ship has sailed” – she now needs testosterone treatment to maintain hormonal balance.
The beloved host is taking her recovery seriously. “I do get tired,” she admitted. “I’ve got to be careful. Normally, I’m rushing around – but now I need to go a bit easier.”
