Helen George has opened up about her complicated pregnancy, which caused her to deliver her first child six weeks before her due date. The Call the Midwife star and her partner, Jack Ashton, became proud parents to their daughter, called Wren Ivy, in September. Although her baby is well and healthy, the actress developed a liver condition called ICP (intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy). In an interview with Event Magazine, Helen shared: "The side effects are mainly a really strong sense of itching. I was scratching myself so much I had bruises all over my body. It's awful. It can drive women to suicide in some cases. It's a horrific illness."
Helen George gave birth to baby Wren Ivy in September
Is Helen George engaged to Call The Midwife co-star Jack Ashton?
ICP is a serious liver disorder which is caused by a build-up of acid within the body. The condition means there is a higher risk of stillbirth and a potentially dangerous childbirth. The actress has since become a patron of ICP Support, who she credits with helping her when living dealing with the condition. News of Helen's pregnancy was only revealed in September, when she stepped out for the TV Choice Awards proudly debuting a baby bump. Last month, Helen and Jack delighted their fans by announcing the birth of little Wren. The actress shared a series of sweet family photos, revealing that their daughter had arrived ahead of schedule, and was therefore able to attend her own baby shower. "When your baby turns up early for her own baby shower, welcome to the world little one," Helen captioned the picture. "What an amazing day, we have the best friends."
STORY: Call the Midwife's Helen George shares cute photo of baby Wren
Helen and Jack found love following her split from husband Oliver Boot in August 2015. The couple met on the set of the BBC medical drama, and grew close while filming on location in South Africa - Helen stars as Trixie Franklin, while Jack plays Reverend Tom Hereward. Helen recently shared an Instagram image of the gifts given to her following her last days on the set of Call The Midwife. Reassuring her fans she would be back, the actress said: "Beautiful send off from the best crew #callthemidwife- no plans to leave the show just a bit of time off. And the sex will be a surprise to us all. boys can wear pink."