'I've wanted this for years': Love Island Australia's Erin Barnett on getting a hysterectomy at age 28
Love Island's Erin Barnett has revealed she's undergone a full hysterectomy after years of struggling with endometriosis, adenomyosis, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
The 28-year-old took to social media to share her journey with fans in a series of photos, video diaries, and Q&As.
Stream every episode ever of Love Island Australia Love Island UK for free on 9Now.
"TODAY I HAD MY HYSTERECTOMY!" Erin began.
"Surgery went really well! We did have some trouble getting my pain under control in recovery, but we got there in the end.
"I've wanted this for years and I'm so overwhelmed with emotions now it's happened."
Erin was overjoyed to finally undergo a hysterectomy after years of health problems. Instagram
Erin has spent years fighting for approval for the life-changing hysterectomy surgery.
"I'm so glad I never gave up advocating for myself and my body. And please remember, we are all amazing with or without kids," she continued.
"Having children does not define you. Do whatever makes you happy and healthy."
READ MORE: Love Island UK winners Ekin-Su Cülcüloğlu and Davide Sanclimenti announce shock split
Prior to the surgery, Erin's health battle took a devastating toll on her entire life.
She'd endured 17 surgeries, the first when she was just 15, and been on countless medications to try to manage her endometriosis, adenomyosis, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Erin posted an update from hospital after the five-hour surgery. Instagram
Following the surgery Erin took to Instagram to answer fans questions about her surgery.
Many followers were interested to know how Erin was coping now that she'd not be able to have children naturally.
"I grew up knowing I'd struggle to have children. As time went on and I had numerous surgeries I was told I would have to do IVF," she said.
Erin revealed that she looked into egg freezing four years ago but was told she was a high risk patient due to her PCOS.
The reality star said that "the cons outweighed the pros" so she decided not to go through with it.
"I came to accept the fact that in this lifetime I won't be a mother.
"It's obvious that this is the path I was given and I don't see the need to push for something that is clearly not meant for me," she concluded her answer.
READ MORE: Erin Barnett discusses the moment she found out she was unable to conceive naturally
Fans and friends rallied around Erin in the comment section of her post.
"Yeeeees Erin, stoked to hear it all went well 😌😌," former Love Island co-star Josh Moss wrote.
Another friend wrote, "The start of a new life for you!"
READ MORE: Where to get 37 per cent off popular coffee machine
"This is great news lovely! I'm so happy for you. Here's to a happy long, pain free life. I have no kids and live a fulfilled existence!" Yvie Jones commented.
Many others wrote that Erin's "strength is inspiring".
We wish Erin a speedy recovery and all the best in this new chapter of her life.
Stream every episode ever of Love Island UK and Love Island Australia for free on 9Now.
