Barbara Palvin, the 31-year-old Hungarian model and actress, has recently shared a significant update regarding her health, revealing that she underwent surgery for endometriosis and is now experiencing major improvements. In a candid Instagram post on August 17, 2025, Palvin, who is married to actor Dylan Sprouse, opened up about her years-long struggle with the condition, aiming to raise awareness and encourage other women to seek help if they experience similar symptoms.
Palvin explained that she had been silently battling the symptoms of endometriosis for years, including fatigue, severe pain, heavy and irregular periods, and sleepless nights. She admitted she initially believed these difficulties were simply a part of her body's natural rhythm. "I thought this was just how it works for me," she wrote. However, after being advised to consult an endometriosis specialist, she discovered the underlying cause of her suffering.
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, often causing chronic pain and other complications. It can affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the tissue lining the pelvis, potentially leading to cysts, scar tissue, and fertility issues. The World Health Organization estimates that endometriosis affects approximately 10% of reproductive-age women globally.
Palvin highlighted that despite regular gynecological check-ups, her endometriosis went undetected because it cannot be diagnosed through general examinations. "I've been going to checkups [with] my gynecologist every year. I thought if I had endometriosis I would have known about it by now, but as it turns out, endometriosis can't be diagnosed with general examinations," she shared. This emphasizes the importance of seeking specialized care for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Following her diagnosis, Palvin underwent surgery within three months. She reported a significant improvement in her symptoms since the procedure, noting that she is "finally" experiencing more comfortable periods. "[The surgery] helped me a lot, and I'm grateful I did it," she stated. Palvin also shared photos from her hospital stay, illustrating both the seriousness of the surgery and her commitment to raising awareness.
Palvin's openness about her health battle has been met with an outpouring of support from fans and fellow celebrities, who have praised her honesty and courage in shedding light on a condition that affects millions of women worldwide. Many have shared their own experiences with endometriosis, thanking Palvin for using her platform to break the silence and encourage others to seek help.
In her Instagram post, Palvin urged women experiencing similar symptoms to consult with endometriosis specialists, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and treatment to prevent long-term complications. "Early diagnosis and treatment are very important to prevent long-term complications, and now I'm more mindful about my body to act fast if needed," she wrote. She also mentioned that she took the past three months to rest and fully heal after the surgery.
Looking ahead, Palvin expressed optimism and excitement about this new chapter in her life, stating that she is now ready to return to work. Her experience highlights the importance of listening to one's body, seeking expert medical advice, and advocating for one's health.
