Dr. Philippa Kaye, a general practitioner and author known for her appearances on the British daytime show 'This Morning,' has spoken candidly about her ongoing struggles with the physical and emotional changes she is experiencing due to early menopause. The 46-year-old underwent a hysterectomy in March following a diagnosis of cancer risk, leading to surgically removed ovaries and the onset of premature menopause.
In an update shared on Instagram, Dr. Kaye detailed how her body has transformed since the surgery and treatment. She expressed a sense of loss, stating she misses "seeing the person she was before." While acknowledging the scars as "tattoos of my battles" and a testament to her body's resilience, she finds the other changes more challenging. Despite being on hormone replacement therapy (HRT), she noted changes in her hair, skin, and body composition. "My hair is thinner. My skin changed with more wrinkles and dark marks. My body is softer despite exercise," she wrote. "I see the changes everywhere. I’m grateful to be here. My body doesn’t work as before and now it doesn’t seem to look as before. I know it is vain but sometimes I wanna look in the mirror and see the person I was before… sometimes."
Dr. Kaye clarified that while she is grateful for her body's functionality, it is difficult to ignore the visible alterations. Her vulnerability resonated with many, including television presenter Myleene Klass, who offered words of support, thanking Dr. Kaye for sharing her "immense vulnerability and strength." Other commenters expressed understanding and acknowledged the validity of grieving for one's former physical self.
Dr. Kaye was initially diagnosed with stage two bowel cancer at the age of 39 in 2019. After undergoing six months of chemotherapy and an extensive surgery, she was declared cancer-free in 2020. She had announced in January that she was preparing for surgery without disclosing the specifics of her health diagnosis at that time. "When the day of the surgery arrives, the time for worry is over. No more questions or concerns," she shared then. "You put your big girl pants on. You trust in your team and you let go. See you on the other side."