Bindi Irwin has shared that her long and painful journey with endometriosis has taken a significant turn following a series of surgeries. In an emotional Instagram post, the conservationist and daughter of the late Steve Irwin announced the successful removal of 51 endometriosis lesions, a chocolate cyst, and her appendix, along with the repair of a hernia caused by childbirth. The procedures, performed by Dr. Tamer Seckin, an expert in endometriosis, occurred during two separate surgeries.
Irwin expressed her relief and hope for the future, stating, “I can function in everyday life without wanting to throw up or pass out from the pain.” After 13 years of advocating for awareness and understanding of endometriosis, she is finally beginning to heal. Her journey underscores the struggles faced by many women suffering from this often-misunderstood condition, which affects approximately 9 million women in the United States alone.
Understanding Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, leading to significant pain and other complications. According to research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, diagnosis can take an average of five to twelve years due to stigma and misdiagnosis. The World Health Organization highlights that common symptoms include severe pelvic pain, painful periods, and infertility.
The condition affects around 10 percent of reproductive-aged women globally, making it a widespread yet often neglected health issue. Irwin’s personal account sheds light on the emotional and physical burden many endure, as she recalls feeling “utterly ashamed” during her teenage years because of the symptoms that were often dismissed.
The Road to Recovery and Raising Awareness
In her post, Irwin emphasized the importance of open conversations about women’s health. She stated that no young woman should feel ashamed or alone in their experience of pain, which is frequently trivialized as a normal aspect of womanhood. Her story aims to encourage others to seek help and advocate for their health needs.
Irwin’s surgeries provided her not just with symptom relief but also the potential to preserve fertility, as the removal of lesions can support reproductive health. Recovery from laparoscopic surgery typically takes two to four weeks, depending on the individual’s health and the extent of the procedure.
In May 2025, the Seckin Endometriosis Research Center opened at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, marking a significant advancement in the fight against this condition. With $20 million in funding, the center aims to enhance understanding, develop non-invasive diagnostic methods, and improve treatment options for endometriosis.
Irwin’s experience highlights the broader challenge many women face in navigating their health concerns. She concluded her message with optimism, stating she is “slowly gaining [her] strength back” and is beginning to recognize herself again. Her dedication to raising awareness about endometriosis helps foster a dialogue that could benefit countless others.
