Porsha Williams, known for her appearances in reality TV, has been candidly sharing her personal experiences with audiences for over a decade. Recently, she discussed a previously undisclosed health issue involving an emergency partial hysterectomy. This surgery was necessary after doctors found 21 uterine fibroids, with one as large as a cantaloupe.
Health Journey
Williams spoke to “CBS Mornings” co-anchor Gayle King about her sudden hospital experience. The situation developed rapidly, and it wasn’t until she found herself in a hospital bed that she fully grasped its seriousness. Williams, recently seen on “Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip” and season four of “Traitors,” had been managing fibroids since her late 20s.
Initially, she underwent a procedure called uterine fibroid embolization, aiming to diminish them while preserving her uterus. She believed the fibroids were eliminated. However, at 45, she experienced symptoms like prolonged menstruation, migraines, and fatigue, attributing them to perimenopause. Her first encounter with fibroids occurred during attempts to conceive, revealing them after facing fertility barriers.
Fertility Struggles
Williams recounted being unaware of fibroids until pregnancy prompted additional examinations. A doctor identified a fibroid, warning of potential complications. By the fourth month, the fibroid outgrew the fetus, sadly leading to a miscarriage. Fortunately, in 2019, Williams welcomed her daughter Pilar, often termed a “rainbow baby.”
Believing her family complete, Williams thought her challenges ended. She embraced her role as a mother, supported by a strong network. Yet, accompanying a friend to a fertility consultation, she decided on an exam herself. The examination revealed the fibroids’ return, prompting distress and disbelief.
Advocacy for Women
Referred to a fertility specialist, the number and size of the fibroids surprised her medical team. After a prompt MRI, Williams underwent surgery in May 2026. She now shares her story, urging women to be proactive about their health.
“We must stop self-diagnosing. Women face myriad health challenges needing professional evaluation. Advocacy is crucial,” she emphasized. Having first learned of fibroids through her experience highlights the necessity of knowledgeable guidance. Williams hopes others like her will feel empowered to seek necessary examinations.