She might have looked glamorous but Marilyn Monroe spent much of her life in chronic pain, which started her addiction to pain killers , and eventually leading to the stars her death. Spending her life in and out of the hospital, she was eventually diagnosed with endometriosis; a little understood but common disease of the female pelvis.
Endometriosis (sometimes referred to as 'endo') is a condition where endometrium – the tissue which normally lines the uterus – is found outside the uterus on the surface of other organs of the pelvis. It irritates the nerve endings of these organs, and interferes with their functions, causing (often severe) pelvic pain, irregular menstrual bleeding, intestinal issues, chemical sensitivities, bowel and bladder symptoms and infertility in some women. Because it often mimic other conditions, and because it is poorly understood by many people (including some doctors), endometriosis can take months or even years to be diagnosed and properly treated. But treatment – which is much simpler and more effective than in Marilyn Monroe's lifetime – can bring dramatic relief. There is no cure for endometriosis.
Although Marilyn's life was shortened due to her drug abuse, she is an example of the many woman struggling with this disease and pushing through with a smile on her face. If you are an endometriosis sufferer we are blessed to have so many treatment options available. Stay strong and keep smiling!
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