Dolly Parton’s health battles: The endometriosis diagnosis that changed her life
By Valerian Khakayi, August 27, 2026Country music icon Dolly Parton faced several health challenges throughout her life, from endometriosis and a partial hysterectomy in the 1980s to recurring kidney stones and, in her final years, complications involving her immune and digestive systems.
Parton, who died on August 25, 2026, aged 80, had continued working despite her health struggles. Her death followed a brief battle with cancer, according to reports from her representatives, although details surrounding the cancer diagnosis were not publicly disclosed.
One of the most significant health challenges Parton experienced came relatively early in her career and had lasting consequences for her physical and emotional wellbeing.
Here are some of the health challenges the country music icon faced throughout her life.
- Endometriosis diagnosis
In the 1980s, Parton experienced serious gynaecological problems, severe abdominal pain and heavy bleeding, which led to a diagnosis of endometriosis.
She eventually underwent a partial hysterectomy, a life-changing procedure that meant she could no longer carry a pregnancy.
The surgery had a profound emotional impact on Parton, who had once dreamed of becoming a mother. She later spoke about falling into a deep depression as she came to terms with her health problems and infertility.
The experience became a major turning point in her life, although she eventually found ways to channel her emotions into her work and other aspects of her life.
- Kidney stones
Parton also battled recurring kidney stones. In 2015, she was hospitalised and underwent a procedure to remove them after false reports claimed she had stomach cancer.
Years later, kidney stones again caused health complications, including an infection that forced her to miss a public appearance.
- Immune and digestive system problems
Parton’s health concerns became more prominent in her later years. She revealed that she had been experiencing problems affecting her immune and digestive systems for several years.
She said doctors were working to strengthen the systems, while medication and treatment sometimes caused dizziness, making it difficult for her to perform safely.
In 2025 and 2026, she postponed and later cancelled planned performances as she underwent medical procedures and treatment.
- Dehydration and dizziness
Parton also experienced dehydration and dizziness, which affected some of her public appearances. Her health challenges, alongside the effects of treatment, at times made it difficult for her to travel and perform.
- Back problems
She also suffered back problems during her career, including a back injury in 2008 that forced her to postpone some performances.
A life marked by resilience
Despite her health struggles, Parton continued working on music, business and philanthropic projects.
Her battle with endometriosis remained one of the most personal challenges she faced, changing the course of her life and contributing to a difficult period of depression.
From reproductive health challenges and kidney stones to later immune and digestive problems, Parton continued to show resilience throughout her life, refusing to let illness define her remarkable career.