Rachel Hampton is speaking out after a years-long health battle led to the removal of 21 uterine fibroids, a procedure she says changed her life and reinforced the importance of listening to your body.
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During a Fox 32 Chicago special, Hampton said she experienced persistent bloating, heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and fatigue for years. Even after losing more than 53 pounds, her abdomen remained noticeably enlarged, leaving her concerned that something more serious was going on.
Her search for answers took a frightening turn when she fainted. An MRI later revealed that severe uterine fibroids had nearly replaced her uterine tissue. Hampton was initially told she might need a hysterectomy, a diagnosis that left her devastated.
Wanting to explore every possible option, Hampton sought another opinion after receiving a referral from her infectious disease specialist, Dr. Angel Leake-Worthy. The referral connected her with gynecologic surgeon Dr. Kanika Sood, who determined that a uterus-preserving surgery was possible.
Dr. Sood performed a successful myomectomy, removing 21 fibroids while preserving Hampton’s uterus. Since the surgery, Hampton has continued her recovery and has lost an additional 19 pounds.
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Uterine fibroids are noncancerous tumors that develop in or around the uterus and can cause symptoms ranging from heavy bleeding and pelvic pressure to chronic pain, fertility issues, and anemia. Health experts note that Black women are more likely to develop fibroids, often at younger ages and with more severe symptoms than other groups.
Today, Hampton is using her experience to encourage other women not to ignore persistent symptoms. She hopes her story reminds others that an enlarged abdomen, ongoing bloating, heavy bleeding, and chronic pelvic pain should not be dismissed as normal.
By sharing her journey, Hampton hopes more women will seek medical attention early, ask questions, and pursue second opinions when necessary—steps she believes can make a life-changing difference.
