Pretty Little Liars has been a comfort show for many, especially for those who enjoy a lightweight, soapy mystery drama that does not require too much head-scratching. One of the fan-favorite characters on the show was the mastermind Mona Vanderwaal, played by Janel Parrish, without whom the story would not have been the same. Unfortunately, Pretty Little Liars alum Parrish, who quickly became the 'It girl' of the show, has been enduring the debilitating pain of an incurable disease behind the media glare for some time now. 

The actress has finally broken her silence on the health struggle she has been facing with endometriosis.

After months of enduring insufferable pain, Janel Parrish, on June 25, shared a picture of her hand with a medical wristband, holding someone’s hand, presumably her husband Chris Long. The actress explained that she had undergone surgery to remove cysts and scar tissue caused by the disease called endometriosis. According to the Mayo Clinic, this disease occurs when the inner lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing unbearable pain that also affects the ovaries and fallopian tubes. It can also lead to miscarriages, the consequence that once had Marilyn Monroe in shambles. 

There are also a few misconceptions surrounding the disease. Dr. Bobbie Rimel, an OB/GYN and oncologist at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, previously told SurvivorNet that although endometriosis may produce symptoms similar to endometrial cancer, it is “not cancer.” And even though the condition cannot be completely cured, its symptoms can be managed for a better quality of life with proper treatment. The star from Pretty Little Liars, however, did not just want to talk about her treatment. 

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Along with sharing her journey with endometriosis, Janel Parrish also explained why she decided to make her otherwise private health battle public.

Janel Parrish, a relatively private person, explained why she put the Instagram story to share her journey in the first place. The actress noted how there is only “little information” available about endometriosis on the internet. This led Parrish to try to help spur conversation around endometriosis, spreading awareness about the same. “I hope this helps to keep the conversation about Endo open and flowing,” said the actress.

Parrish also shared that seeing other women around her talking about their stories about the disease has made her feel “stronger.” In the past, many other celebrities like Bindi Irwin, Halsey, Corrine Foxx, and Alexa Chung have opened up about their journey with the condition as well. This involvement of high-profile individuals in discussing their experiences with endometriosis should help stimulate ongoing conversations about it even further. 

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What do you think about Janel Parrish's story? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!