Best Iud To Treat Fibroids Choices for Fibroids: What to Eat and Avoid

September 13, 2025

Best IUD to Treat Fibroids Choices for Fibroids: What to Eat and Avoid

If you’re managing uterine fibroids, you likely have two big questions: Which intrauterine device (IUD) helps most with heavy bleeding, and what should you eat (or avoid) to feel better? This guide brings together evidence-based guidance on IUD options and practical nutrition strategies, using trusted sources such as the FDA, NIH, and ACOG.

Can an IUD Help With Fibroids?

Fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, and anemia. While an IUD won’t remove or directly shrink fibroids, a hormonal IUD can significantly reduce heavy bleeding—a key symptom for many people with fibroids.

Levonorgestrel-Releasing IUDs: The Top Choice for Heavy Bleeding

Levonorgestrel-releasing IUDs (often called LNG-IUDs) release a small amount of progestin inside the uterus, thinning the uterine lining and decreasing menstrual blood loss. In the U.S., Mirena and Liletta are FDA-approved to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in people who choose IUD contraception. They are commonly used in patients with fibroid-related heavy periods, especially when the uterine cavity is not significantly distorted by fibroids.

What they do well: Reduce bleeding and cramps, improve anemia and quality of life, provide highly effective birth control.
What they don’t do: They typically do not shrink fibroids themselves.
Who benefits most: Those with heavy bleeding without large submucosal fibroids that distort the uterine cavity.

Clinical guidance from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) supports LNG-IUDs to control heavy bleeding associated with fibroids when the uterine cavity can accommodate an IUD.^ACOG

What About Kyleena and Skyla?

Kyleena and Skyla are lower-dose LNG-IUDs approved for contraception, but not specifically for heavy menstrual bleeding. Some people still notice lighter periods with them, but when heavy bleeding is the main concern, Mirena or Liletta generally have the strongest evidence and indications.

Copper IUDs: Often Not Ideal for Fibroid-Related Bleeding

Copper IUDs are hormone-free and excellent contraception, but they can increase menstrual bleeding and cramping, especially in the first months. For someone with fibroid-related heavy bleeding, a copper IUD is usually not the best first choice.

Who May Not Be a Candidate for an IUD?

IUDs are generally safe, but they may be less suitable if you have:

Large submucosal fibroids that significantly distort the uterine cavity
A recent pelvic infection or untreated cervicitis
Certain uterine anomalies or unexplained vaginal bleeding

Your clinician may recommend a pelvic exam and an ultrasound to assess the size and location of fibroids before insertion. Distortion of the uterine cavity increases insertion difficulties and expulsion risk.^ACOG

Safety and Side Effects

Most users tolerate LNG-IUDs well. Common effects include lighter or irregular bleeding in the first 3–6 months, breast tenderness, or acne; these usually improve over time. Serious complications are rare. The FDA labeling for Mirena and Liletta details indications, contraindications, and potential risks.^FDA

Food and Lifestyle: What to Eat and What to Limit With Fibroids

Nutrition won’t remove fibroids, but it can support hormone balance, reduce inflammation, and address iron deficiency from heavy bleeding. Here’s what current evidence suggests.

Eat More of These

Fruits and vegetables: Diets rich in produce are linked to overall reproductive health and lower inflammation. Dark leafy greens, berries, cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, Brussels sprouts), and citrus are nutrient-dense choices.
Vitamin D–rich foods: Low vitamin D status has been associated with a higher prevalence of fibroids in observational studies. Include fortified dairy or plant milks, eggs, and fatty fish (salmon, sardines). Consider testing and discussing supplementation with your clinician.^{NIH ODS}
Whole grains and legumes: High-fiber foods support healthy estrogen metabolism and gut function.
Iron-rich foods: If you have heavy bleeding, prioritize iron sources to prevent anemia: lean red meat in moderation, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, tofu, spinach, and iron-fortified cereals. Pair plant iron with vitamin C (e.g., beans + peppers) to boost absorption. Your clinician may recommend an iron supplement if needed.^NIH/NHLBI

Limit or Avoid

Red and processed meats: Some large cohort studies have linked higher intake to increased fibroid risk; while not definitive, cutting back may be prudent and supports overall cardiovascular health.^{NIH/NCBI review}
Alcohol (especially higher intake): Higher alcohol consumption has been associated with greater fibroid risk in some studies. If you drink, do so in moderation.^NICHD/NIH
High-sodium, ultra-processed foods, and added sugars: These can worsen inflammation, blood pressure, and overall metabolic health, which may indirectly influence symptoms.

Supplements and Herbal Options: Proceed With Caution

Green tea extract (EGCG) has shown promise in small trials for reducing fibroid-related symptoms and size, but larger, high-quality studies are needed. Green tea extract is a dietary supplement and not FDA-approved to treat fibroids; high doses have been linked to rare liver injury. If you consider it, discuss dosing and safety with your clinician.^{NIH ODS}

Be cautious with any supplement marketed for fibroids. In the U.S., supplements are not FDA-approved to diagnose, treat, or cure diseases. Review interactions if you take medications, and seek medical advice before starting new products.^FDA

Weight, Exercise, and Hormone Balance

Excess adipose tissue can raise estrogen levels. Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in regular physical activity may help reduce symptom burden over time and improve overall health. Focus on nutrient-dense eating patterns (Mediterranean-style diets are a practical template) and aim for at least 150 minutes/week of moderate activity, as tolerated.^CDC

Putting It Together: Choosing the Best IUD and a Supportive Eating Plan

Get a personalized assessment: Ask your clinician for a pelvic exam and ultrasound to evaluate fibroid size and location. This helps determine if an IUD can be placed safely and effectively.
Discuss LNG-IUDs first for heavy bleeding: Mirena or Liletta are typically preferred for fibroid-related heavy periods due to robust evidence and FDA indications for heavy menstrual bleeding.
Build a nutrient-forward plate: Emphasize produce, whole grains, legumes, iron-rich foods, and vitamin D sources. Reduce alcohol and high-processed foods.
Treat anemia early: Monitor your hemoglobin and ferritin. Use diet and, when appropriate, iron supplements under medical guidance.
Monitor and adjust: Keep a symptom and period log. If bleeding remains heavy or pain persists, ask about next steps such as tranexamic acid, GnRH antagonists, uterine artery embolization, or myomectomy—uterus-sparing options for persistent symptoms.^ACOG

When to Seek Care Urgently

Soaking through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours
Symptoms of severe anemia (chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting)
Severe pelvic pain or fever after an IUD insertion

This article is for educational purposes and does not replace personalized medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.