Daisy Ridley reveals health struggles

Star Wars actress Daisy Ridley has opened up about her struggles with endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome in a touching post on Instagram.

The 24-year-old shared a smiling photo of herself wearing a face mask.

Alongside the photo Ridley revealed that she was diagnosed with endometriosis at age 15 and recently discovered that she also has polycystic ovaries, which affects up to 1 in 10 women around the world. Ridley wrote that the condition left her in pain and with skin problems, but that "progress is being made" with the help of specialists and changes in her diet.

"Throughout all this I've only had people being wonderful and encouraging and occasionally making me realise I'm being ridiculous and there's more to life," she wrote.

The Force Awakens star also encouraged her followers to get tests done if they suffer similar symptoms.

"Pay for a specialist; get your hormones tested, get allergy testing; keep on top of how your body is feeling and don't worry about sounding like a hypochondriac.

"From your head to the tips of your toes we only have one body, let us all make sure ours are working in tip top condition, and take help if it's needed."

Ridley starred as Rey in last year's smash hit film, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, directed by J.J. Abrams. Fans will be able to see her in the next Star Wars movie due out next year and is now in production.

- nzherald.co.nz