EastEnders is gearing up for some major drama involving Lauren Branning (Jacqueline Jossa) as she grapples with health issues and relationship troubles with her boyfriend Peter Beale (Thomas Law).
In recent episodes of the BBC One soap, Lauren found out she was pregnant after being encouraged to take a test by Anna Knight (Molly Rainford). This came after weeks of feeling unwell following a scary crush incident that left her injured.
The unexpected news followed advice from a GP who suggested Lauren reduce her medication intake and use over-the-counter alternatives for pain management, refusing to prescribe any more potent pills. Struggling with persistent pain and daily headaches, she soon realised her symptoms were due to pregnancy.
Next week's episodes will see Lauren dealing with health worries in the wake of her pregnancy announcement, adding another twist to the ongoing saga.
Still reeling from the nightclub incident at Peggy's, she continues to hide something from her boyfriend, Peter, and the rest of her family. As Peter tries to support Lauren, they end up in an argument, leading Cindy to intervene with a warning for Lauren, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Anna gives Peter food for thought, which results in him confronting Lauren at No. 45 about her potential drinking problem. But how will she react to Peter's questioning?
The situation takes a turn for the worse for the pregnant mum in the coming week, as her relationship hits rock bottom and she gets entangled in Cindy Beale's (played by Michelle Collins) web of deceit.
However, Lauren soon finds herself at loggerheads with Cindy when Kojo Asare (portrayed by Dayo Koleosho) catches her with her lover Junior Knight (Micah Balfour).
A confrontation between Cindy and Kojo leaves him seriously injured. Lauren arrives on the scene, exchanges heated words with Cindy before Kojo is rushed to hospital.
In the aftermath, Cindy frantically tries to cover her tracks, leaving Lauren horrified. She then vows to uncover Cindy's secrets.
But with Lauren already under immense stress due to her pregnancy, will this added burden prove too much for her to handle?
EastEnders airs Monday - Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
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