It is thought that Marilyn Monroe had endometriosis. The gynaecological disease affects 1 in 10 women. Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other places, such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
But unlike cells that line the womb, endometriosis cells cannot exit the body like a period. And whilst surgical and hormonal treatments do exist, there is no cure (or current research breakthrough leading to one – so most sufferers experience chronic pain.
The disease can be found in areas including the pelvis, diaphragm, bowel, bladder, lungs and even the brain. Symptoms include pain, fatigue, heavy bleeding and depression. Endometriosis can affect fertility.
In is well documented that Monroe experienced miscarriages in 1956 and 1958, as well as an ectopic pregnancy in 1957, despite desperately wanting a child. Marilyn Monroe was also under public scrutiny over using painkillers and drugs. Endometriosis may have been part of all of these problems.
The WHO has good information on endometriosis.
