Helen Flanagan is having a tough time in her pregnancy.
The former Coronation Street star is expecting her third child with footballer fiancé Scott Sinclair, but admits she's not been having the best time.
Poor Helen, 30, has been suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum, an extreme form of morning sickness that affected Kate Middleton in her first two pregnancies.
The actress took to Instagram to share her experience with her fans and offer advice to other expecting mothers who might be having issues of their own.
Helen, who is already mum to Matilda and Delilah, shared a snap of herself cradling her growing bump as she posed up in a bra.
She penned: "I haven’t found this pregnancy easy at all. I’ve had hyperemesis gravidarum which is really extreme morning sickness. I had it before with both girls but this time has been SO tough.
"I felt weak most days and really struggled to eat - it was a vicious circle because the more hungry I got, the more sick I was. It made me feel really low, it just felt like it would never end.
"No one wants to feel like that, especially during a time that should be so exciting. The entire experience has been a real challenge and exhausting both physically and mentally."
She added: "One of the worst things about HG is how isolating it is. I couldn’t go out, I couldn’t cook, even talking on the phone for too long would make me ill. One thing that helped keep my spirits up during this time was @peanut.
"Being able to open the app and read other women’s experiences and messages of support was a great comfort and helped me know that I’m not alone.
"@peanut is an amazing app that connects you with other women going through similar things as you. Whether you’re going through pregnancy, adoption, IVF or life with a new baby, it helps you bond with other women over your shared experiences.
" I wish it was around when I first had Matilda. I would have really benefited because as a first time mum I was quite lonely and anxious. Motherhood can be challenging but having a community who can support you really helps! #peanutapp #ad."
Helen was praised for opening up about her tough experience.
One fan told her: "Your doing an amazing Job beauty! Well done for being so open about your experience I’m sure it will help lots of other women who are also struggling."
A second posted: "I had HG with both of my children from start to finish. It’s so draining!! I was in and out of hospital topping up my fluids etc. I hope yours has eased now and you can enjoy your pregnancy."
While a third wrote: "Thank you Helen for sharing this and opening up another how you feel! I also like how you think of others such as IVF."
