Lili Reinhart is opening up about a deeply personal health journey as she reveals she was recently diagnosed with endometriosis — a condition that went undetected by multiple doctors for a year before she pushed for answers herself.
The “Riverdale” alum, 29, underwent laparoscopic surgery last week that ultimately led to the diagnosis, marking a turning point after months of chronic pain and frustration.
Reinhart took to Instagram on Thursday, December 11, to share photos from her hospital experience and candidly describe the long road she traveled before doctors finally identified the source of her pain.
“Last year, I saw a urogynecologist and was diagnosed with interstitial cystitis,” she wrote, noting that multiple specialists failed to consider endometriosis as the underlying cause of her symptoms.
It wasn’t until she worked with pelvic floor therapists and insisted on an MRI that the possibility of endometriosis — specifically adenomyosis, a form that affects the uterus — was even discussed.
Despite conflicting medical opinions — including another gynecologist who told her she “probably didn’t have endo” and suggested birth control — Reinhart said she trusted her instincts and sought out a specialist who could help guide her toward a surgical solution.
“I’m glad I trusted my body and listened to my gut and will continue advocating for others to do so,” she wrote.
What Is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis, a condition in which tissue similar to the uterus lining grows outside the uterus, affects an estimated one in 10 people with uteruses worldwide.
However, it’s notoriously underdiagnosed, with many patients waiting years for a definitive answer — often between 4 to 11 years — after symptoms first begin.
Reinhart highlighted this gap in her post, noting how misunderstood the disease often is and encouraging others to seek answers when they feel dismissed.
The actress’s decision to publicly share her journey comes on the heels of ongoing health advocacy: earlier this year, she spoke about her struggles with chronic illness and how her grandmother’s own experience with ignored medical symptoms inspired her to stay persistent in seeking care.
Reinhart’s honest account has resonated with fans and the wider community, many of whom praised her for using her platforms to shed light on a condition that affects millions but remains poorly understood in both medical and cultural conversations.
Fans Praise Her for Opening Up
Fans of the actress were quick to share their well-wishes for her recovery and their admiration for her opening up about her diagnosis.
“SO SO HAPPY YOU GOT ANSWERS. Thank you for sharing your story. The louder we share, the more awareness we create for other women,” one user wrote.
Another added, “So proud of you for advocating for yourself and bravely sharing your journey. So many people need to see this AND know about endos effects on mental health. It’s all connected.”
