Hungarian model Barbara Palvin surprised her followers by speaking openly about a little-discussed diagnosis: endometriosis. In a recent interview, Barbara revealed that she underwent surgery due to the chronic pain she had been facing for some time, which made her reconsider many things about her health, her body, and her future.
Her husband, actor Dylan Sprouse, also shared words that touched their followers. On social media, he expressed his admiration for Barbara, saying that she has been “incredibly brave” throughout the entire process, and that this experience has brought them even closer as a couple.
Beyond the spotlight, her story has resonated with thousands of women who have gone through something similar: pain that gets normalized, delayed diagnoses, and above all, uncertainty when thinking about having a baby.
In this blog, we discuss what endometriosis is, how it affects fertility, how it can be diagnosed and managed, and most importantly: what options exist so that the dream of becoming a mom remains possible, even with this diagnosis.
What is Endometriosis and Why Is It So Hard to Diagnose?
Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological disease that occurs when tissue similar to the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) grows outside the uterus, on organs such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, intestines, or even the bladder. Unlike normal endometrial tissue, this ectopic tissue has no way to leave the body during menstruation, which causes inflammation, pain, adhesions, and, in many cases, infertility.
One of the biggest challenges with endometriosis is the delay in diagnosis. It is estimated that many women live with symptoms for 7 to 10 years before receiving a correct diagnosis. During that time, the tissue can affect key structures for fertility, and the damage becomes more difficult to reverse.
Main Symptoms:
- Severe and disabling menstrual pain
- Chronic pelvic pain (not just during periods)
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Constant fatigue
- Digestive or urinary issues during menstruation
- Difficulty getting pregnant
Why Can Endometriosis Affect Fertility?
One of the most significant impacts of this disease is its direct link to female fertility. It is estimated that between 30% and 50% of women with endometriosis may face difficulties conceiving.
The reasons are varied:
- Blockage or damage to the fallopian tubes
- Altered egg quality and ovulation
- Changes in the uterine environment that make embryo implantation harder
- Chronic inflammation, which negatively affects the function of reproductive organs
However, as Barbara Palvin demonstrates, speaking about the problem is the first step toward a solution.
What Options Does a Woman With Endometriosis Have If She Wants a Baby?
The good news is that pregnancy is possible, even when living with endometriosis. The key lies in early diagnosis, proper medical care, and having a specialized assisted reproduction team that fully understands how to handle these complex cases.
At Ingenes, we work with three pillars to help patients with endometriosis:
- Specialized Diagnosis
In many cases, endometriosis takes years to diagnose. That’s why at Ingenes, we carry out detailed studies with a personalized approach. From hormonal tests to specialized ultrasounds, each step is aimed at deeply understanding every woman’s case. - Ovarian Reserve Evaluation
One of the most common concerns in women with endometriosis is the impact of the disease on egg quality and quantity. At Ingenes, we assess your ovarian reserve through studies such as the anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) test, and based on this, we design a program tailored to your life stage and reproductive needs. - Assisted Reproduction Treatments
Depending on each case, different treatments may be recommended:
- Intrauterine insemination (IUI): when endometriosis is mild or moderate and the fallopian tubes are open.
- In vitro fertilization (IVF): especially recommended in moderate to severe cases, or when multiple factors are involved. This technique allows working directly with eggs and sperm in a controlled environment.
- Fertility preservation: in young women who don’t yet want to be mothers but have an endometriosis diagnosis, egg vitrification is possible before the disease progresses or before surgery that could affect ovarian reserve.
The Role of Emotional Support
Talking about endometriosis is not just about physical pain. It also involves an important emotional and psychological burden, especially when the desire to become a mother is at stake. At Ingenes, we deeply understand this.
That’s why all our programs include emotional support from specialized professionals. Because every woman deserves to be heard, understood, and supported on this journey—without judgment or stigma.
The Importance of Making the Invisible Visible
When a public figure like Barbara decides to share her diagnosis, she’s doing much more than telling a personal story. She is helping to break down myths, shine a light on a condition often silenced, and remind other women that they are not alone.
Today, many women can see themselves reflected in her testimony. And if you’re reading this, maybe you’re wondering: “Could that be my case? Can I do it despite endometriosis?”
The answer is yes: yes, you can, and you don’t have to face it alone.
Ingenes: Here’s Where the Path to Your Baby Begins
At Ingenes, we have spent 20 years helping women facing challenges like endometriosis, and today more than 75,000 stars have made it home thanks to our unique model—human, scientific, and focused on making your dream possible.
We offer:
- A team of fertility and embryology specialists experienced in complex cases
- Cutting-edge technologies like IVF MORE®, which helps restore egg quality
- Multi-cycle programs with high cumulative success rates
- A presence in Mexico and the United States, with more than 19 locations
Conclusion
Endometriosis does not define your ability to become a mom. And while every case is unique, there are real, safe, science-backed paths to fulfill your dream. If, like Barbara Palvin, you’ve also gone through difficult times and questioned your reproductive future, at Ingenes we are here to help.
Today, more than ever, talking about endometriosis is necessary. And acting in time is too.Book your appointment at Ingenes and take the first step.
Because your story can also have a happy ending—
or better yet, a beautiful beginning.