Morning Checkup | What is endometriosis, the condition that plagued Dolly Parton during the height of her career INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The hair. The rhinestones. The voice. The big heart. Dolly Rebecca Parton Dean departed this life on Aug. 25, 2026, at age 80, after 60 years of sharing her mu sic, fashion, Southern wit and kindness. Many know her for her duets with Kenny Rogers, her namesake Tennessee amusement park, acting roles including “9 to 5,” “Steel Magnolias,” and appearances on the “Hannah Montana” show, as well as being the infamous songwriter behind Whitney Houston’s award-winning song, “I Will Always Love You”. Many may not know the personal health battle she faced during the height of her career. In the early 1980s, Dolly experienced severe abdominal pain and heavy bleeding. The diagnosis would later be revealed as endometriosis, leading to a partial hysterectomy in her 30s. She and her husband, Carl Dean, never had children of their own. Her infertility initially brought feelings of grief and depression; however, leaning on her faith, Dolly’s love and generosity extended to her nieces and nephews, goddaughter Miley Cyrus and children across the globe through her philanthropy and Imagination Library. What is endometriosis? Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women globally. It is a chronic condition that causes the tissue lining the uterus (endometrium) to grow in other areas of the body, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, intestines, peritoneum and diaphragm.  Symptoms vary widely, including severe abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, anemia, dysmenorrhea (painful periods), dyspareunia (painful sexual intercourse), constipation, bloating, pain with urination and defecation, and infertility. Pain and bleeding may be managed with medications, including NSAIDs and contraceptives. Surgery may be utilized to remove endometrial lesions; however, new lesions may form, and 8 in 10 women have recurrence of pain within two years of surgery.  Endometrial lesion growth is driven by estrogen, and symptoms usually subside following menopause. Advances in evaluation and treatment have occurred in more recent years. Those affected, or those concerned they may be affected, should speak with a trusted healthcare professional and keep Dolly’s spirit in mind. ...read more read less