Pakistan, Oct. 4 -- Lauren Silverman has opened up about the public backlash she faced after her affair with Simon Cowell. The campaigner, now known as Lauren Cowell, said she struggled for years with shame and embarrassment. She also accepted responsibility for her actions while reflecting on how she has moved forward.

Lauren became pregnant with her son Eric, now 12, with Cowell in 2013 while she was married to Andrew Silverman. Andrew later filed for divorce, citing adultery as the reason for their separation. The affair attracted intense public attention and criticism at the time.

Speaking to Fabulous Magazine, Lauren said she felt as though she carried a "scarlet letter" because of the scandal. She admitted that she understood why ...