Bindi Irwin has opened up about her lengthy struggle with endometriosis, a condition that has plagued her for over a decade before she received a diagnosis in March 2023. The wildlife conservationist, daughter of the late Steve Irwin and Terri Irwin, shared her experiences on social media, revealing a journey filled with both pain and resilience.
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Endometriosis is characterised by the growth of tissue similar to the lining of the uterus outside the uterus, resulting in significant pelvic pain. In a candid Instagram post, Irwin explained her decision to publicise her health struggles, stating that she felt a responsibility to share her story to assist other women who may be experiencing similar difficulties.
Reflecting on her recent accolade, Irwin became the first major figure to receive the EndoFound Blossom Award at the 2024 Blossom Ball in New York City. This award, presented in May 2024, recognises individuals who raise awareness about endometriosis and contribute to research initiatives. In her acceptance speech, Irwin noted she was “gaining [her] sense of self again”. She emphasised the importance of remembering that, despite her struggles, she is more than the pain she has endured.
Irwin first learned she had endometriosis after a significant incident in August 2022. During an outing with her daughter, she experienced excruciating pain that forced her to the ground. It was then that a close friend, who had been diagnosed with the same condition, encouraged her to seek further medical intervention, leading to a laparoscopy. The procedure confirmed her worst fears: she had endometriosis.
In her discussions, Irwin highlighted the challenges faced by women in seeking treatment for endometriosis, often being met with misdiagnoses and doubt from medical professionals. She shared that for a decade, she had been told she might be experiencing conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome or hormonal issues, which contributed to her feeling isolated and misunderstood. “I went 10 years undiagnosed because doctors really didn’t know enough,” she said, recounting how it took years before she finally received the correct diagnosis.
Irwin also expressed feelings of despair during those years. Before her diagnosis, she often felt “desperately alone,” especially when people suggested her issues were merely “in her head”. She described the struggle of trying to carry on with her life while battling constant pain, which forced her to cancel plans and isolate herself from others who viewed her as unwell and unreliable.
After her diagnosis, Irwin underwent surgery to remove the lesions and a cyst that had caused her considerable distress. In her March 2023 announcement, she checked in with her followers about her decision to share her journey and mentioned feeling “more alive” post-surgery. During the award ceremony in 2024, she mentioned that the removal of her endometriosis had drastically improved her quality of life. Since her treatment, Irwin celebrated achieving what she described as her first big hike in years, a significant milestone in her recovery journey.
In subsequent posts, Irwin provided updates on her condition. By March 2026, she revealed that she had undergone multiple surgical procedures, having over 50 endometriosis lesions removed in the last few years. Her candidness about the ongoing pain she faced resonated with many, as she encouraged others to remember this often invisible disease and the struggles attached to it.
Irwin’s mother, Terri Irwin, has also spoken publicly about Bindi’s health, indicating that she is doing “so much better now” and has expressed gratitude for the support she has received. However, Terri acknowledged that certain activities, including travel, remain challenging for Bindi as she continues to recover.
Through her advocacy and openness regarding her health issues, Bindi Irwin plays a vital role in raising awareness about endometriosis, helping to inform others about the importance of understanding and recognising this debilitating condition. Her journey illustrates the need for greater awareness and better medical understanding of women’s health issues, particularly those that remain shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding.