Lena Dunham withdraws from Girls promo tour for health reasons
Dunham has been advised to rest by doctors
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Lena Dunham has been forced to cancel promotional appearances for the new season of Girls because of a flare-up of her endometriosis.
In a post on Instagram, the Girls and Lenny Letter co-founder confirmed she would not be doing press for the sixth season after being advised by her doctor to rest.
“As many of you know I have endometriosis, a chronic condition that affects approximately 1 in 10 women's reproductive health,” she wrote. “I am currently going through a rough patch with the illness and my body (along with my amazing doctors) let me know, in no uncertain terms, that it's time to rest.
“That's a hard thing to do, but I'm trying, because all I want is to make season six of Girls the best one yet. I'm lucky enough to have support and backup from Jenni, Judd and the whole Girls gang. So many women with this disease literally don't have the option of time off and I won't take it for granted.”
Endometriosis is a long-term condition affecting the ovaries, fallopian tubes, womb and abdomen. It is caused by tissue similar to the lining of the womb building up outside of the womb. Endometriosis affects two million women in the UK, most of whom are aged between 25 and 40, and symptoms mimic those experienced by menstruating women, making it difficult to diagnose. Symptoms include painful periods, pain during and after sex and problems with fertility.
The sixth season of Girls premieres on HBO on 21 February.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments