Getting to Know Endometriosis, the Health Disorder Barbara Palvin Suffers From

JAKARTA - Barbara Palvin recently shocked the public with news of her health. She revealed that she underwent surgery to treat her endometriosis.

"I've been seeing a gynecologist every year. I thought if I had endometriosis, I would have known by now. Turns out, endometriosis can't be diagnosed with just a general exam. So I went to the gynecologist, and three months later I had surgery," Barbara Palvin wrote on her Instagram account.

As reported by the Cleveland Clinic on Monday, August 25, 2025, endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows in other parts of the body.

When this tissue grows where it shouldn't, it can cause painful symptoms and affect the menstrual cycle, resulting in painful periods, as Barbara Palvin experienced.

"For the past few years, I've struggled with the difficulties that come with my periods," she said.

Yale Medicine's Chief of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Dr. Hugh Taylor, MD, explained that the impact of endometriosis doesn't just affect menstruation, but can affect the entire body. This disease can affect other organs if not treated promptly.

"Our research shows that inflammation from endometriosis can activate white blood cells and create inflammation throughout the body. They can travel to different organs," said Dr. Taylor.

Other symptoms of endometriosis include excessive menstrual blood volume, bleeding outside the menstrual cycle, pain during or after intercourse, pain during bowel movements or urination, diarrhea, bloating, nausea, fatigue during menstruation, and difficulty conceiving.

The exact cause of endometriosis is unknown, but it is suspected to be triggered by several conditions, such as menstrual flow disorders, immune system disorders, changes in immature cells, endometrial cell migration, and even hereditary factors.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above and have risk factors, you should immediately see a specialist. This is necessary for preventative measures and early treatment to avoid long-term complications.

Endometriosis cannot be treated with a general examination. A definitive diagnosis of endometriosis is made through a laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows a doctor to see endometrial tissue growing outside the uterus.

Once diagnosed, endometriosis can be treated with various methods, including therapy and surgery. These procedures aim to relieve pain, slow the growth of endometriosis tissue, and address any fertility issues.