As the world approaches what would have been Marilyn Monroe’s 100th birthday on June 1, 2026, her legacy continues to captivate and intrigue. Yet, alongside her iconic status as a film star and sex symbol, there were deeply personal struggles that defined her life—struggles that many women continue to face today. One such issue was her battle with endometriosis, a condition that significantly affected her physical health and aspirations for motherhood.
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Marilyn Monroe, widely recognised for her roles in classic films and her glamorous public persona, experienced a tumultuous private life plagued by health concerns. According to Anthony Summers’ seminal work, “Goddess: The Secret Lives of Marilyn Monroe,” her endometriosis not only caused her intense pain but also had a devastating impact on her relationships, career, and even her dreams of starting a family. At a time when discussions around women’s health issues were almost non-existent, Monroe suffered in silence.
The severity of Monroe’s condition is underscored by Bryan Johns, the President and CEO of the ICON Collection, who states that she experienced hospitalisation and medical supervision throughout her life due to debilitating symptoms. Despite informing studio executives about her struggles, Monroe often faced disbelief and accusations that she was fabricating her ailments to manipulate her image and maintain control over her career. This led to her battles being minimised by those who were meant to support her.
Endometriosis, characterised by tissue similar to the uterine lining growing outside of the uterus, can cause severe pain and complications for many women. According to the Mayo Clinic, it affects over 11 per cent of women in the United States alone. Monroe is frequently cited as one of the most famous individuals to have suffered from this condition, shedding light on a medical issue that historically lacked awareness and understanding.
Monroe’s desire for a family was profoundly rooted in her childhood experiences, having spent her early years in an orphanage and foster homes. By the time she achieved fame, her longing for children was deeply ingrained. She tirelessly worked to develop her public persona, a dedicated effort that involved the creation of the ‘Marilyn Monroe’ character separate from her real self, Norma Jeane. Those who worked alongside her noted her remarkable commitment and determination to succeed in Hollywood.
A particularly poignant letter, recently auctioned by Heritage Auctions, reveals Monroe’s heartache regarding a potential pregnancy loss. In the letter, she conveys overwhelming emotions, detailing her physical symptoms and concerns about the wellbeing of a child she hoped to nurture. The handwritten note highlights not only her desire for motherhood but also her vulnerability and the depths of her struggles.
Summers’ biography includes insights from Monroe’s long-time physician, Dr. Lee Siegel, who confirmed her diagnosis of endometriosis. Siegel suggested that Monroe consider a hysterectomy due to the relentless pain she experienced, a recommendation that Monroe firmly rejected, stating her unyielding desire to become a mother and have a son.
Despite enduring multiple miscarriages throughout her life, Monroe never succeeded in becoming a mother. She did, however, strive to build relationships with the children of her husbands. In a revealing interview from 1962, Monroe expressed her intentions to nurture these familial bonds, indicating her desire for genuine connections beyond the public image often portrayed by the media.
Monroe reflected on her relationships, particularly with her stepchildren, and emphasised her commitment to transparency, encouraging them to approach her directly with their questions rather than rely on the often sensationalised stories that surrounded her life. Her efforts to connect with them humanised her in ways that contradicted the glamorous yet isolated persona crafted by Hollywood.
As we reflect on Monroe’s life and legacy, it serves as a reminder of the unvoiced struggles many women encounter. Her story brings to light the often-hidden challenges associated with health issues like endometriosis, illustrating how personal battles can intersect with public perceptions. In honouring her memory, it is essential to recognise not only the glamour and success she embodied but also the complex, often painful realities that shaped her life experiences.
In the lead-up to her centenary, Monroe’s life continues to resonate, highlighting the importance of recognising and advocating for women’s health issues. Her enduring legacy serves not only as a tribute to her artistry but also as a call to action for greater awareness and support for the countless women who, like Monroe, navigate their struggles in silence.