Will Fibroids Keep Growing Forever? How Natural Approaches Can Slow Their Impact

Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are common, benign growths of the uterus. By age 50, the majority of women will have them, with higher prevalence and more severe symptoms among Black women. If you’ve been told you have fibroids, you may wonder whether they’ll keep growing indefinitely and what you can do—safely and naturally—to reduce their impact. Here’s what the science says, plus practical steps to feel better and preserve your options.

Do fibroids keep growing forever?

In most cases, no. Fibroid growth is largely driven by the ovarian hormones estrogen and progesterone. During the reproductive years, fibroids can grow, remain stable, or sometimes shrink—growth patterns vary from person to person and even among fibroids in the same uterus. It’s common for fibroids to expand during pregnancy and then decrease in size afterward. After menopause, when hormone levels fall, most fibroids shrink naturally and often cause fewer symptoms. This is one reason clinicians frequently recommend watchful waiting for small, minimally symptomatic fibroids in people nearing menopause.

Fibroids also don’t grow without limits. They rely on a blood supply; when a fibroid outgrows its blood flow, it can undergo “degeneration,” which may cause short-term pain but can halt further enlargement. Importantly, fibroids are benign. The cancer leiomyosarcoma is rare and is generally not thought to arise from an existing fibroid. Still, new or rapidly enlarging masses after menopause, or sudden changes in symptoms, should prompt medical evaluation.

What influences fibroid growth and symptoms?

• Hormones: Estrogen and progesterone stimulate fibroid cells.
• Genetics and race: Fibroids are more common, occur earlier, and can be more severe among Black women.
• Body weight and metabolism: Higher body mass index and metabolic factors may increase risk and symptom burden.
• Vitamin D status: Low vitamin D has been associated with greater fibroid risk in observational studies.
• Blood pressure and environmental exposures: Hypertension and some environmental factors are under study.

Knowing these influences can guide sensible lifestyle steps. While no natural strategy is proven to “cure” fibroids, several can reduce symptoms, support overall health, and may help limit growth.

Natural approaches that may slow impact and improve quality of life

1) Support iron and manage heavy bleeding symptoms

Heavy menstrual bleeding from fibroids can lead to iron-deficiency anemia. Ask your clinician about checking a complete blood count and ferritin. In the meantime:

• Eat iron-rich foods (lean red meat in moderation, beans, lentils, tofu, spinach) with vitamin C–rich foods (citrus, peppers) to boost absorption.
• Discuss iron supplements if needed; avoid self-dosing high amounts without guidance.
• Over-the-counter NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) can reduce menstrual blood loss and relieve cramps for some people; confirm safety with your clinician, especially if you have kidney, stomach, or bleeding risks.
• Use a heating pad or warm baths to ease cramping.

2) Maintain a healthy weight and move regularly

Higher body weight is associated with increased fibroid risk and heavier bleeding. Regular physical activity helps regulate insulin, reduce inflammation, and support hormone balance. Aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity activity plus muscle-strengthening on two days, adjusted to your health status.

3) Choose a plant-forward, fiber-rich eating pattern

Observational research links diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats with better gynecologic health, while high intake of red and processed meats may be associated with higher fibroid risk. A Mediterranean-style pattern is a practical template:

• Plenty of colorful produce and leafy greens
• Whole grains, beans, lentils, and nuts
• Fish and olive oil as primary fat sources
• Limit added sugars, alcohol, and processed meats

High-fiber foods may help by aiding estrogen metabolism and promoting satiety for weight management.

4) Ensure adequate vitamin D

Low vitamin D has been associated with higher fibroid prevalence in NIH-supported research. While causation isn’t proven, maintaining sufficient levels is beneficial for bone and overall health. Consider:

• Safe sun exposure as appropriate for your skin type and location
• Dietary sources (fortified milk/plant milks, fatty fish, eggs)
• Supplements if you’re deficient—ideally after a blood test and clinician guidance. Avoid megadosing.

5) Green tea (EGCG): promising but not a cure

Small clinical studies suggest epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a compound in green tea, may modestly reduce fibroid volume and improve symptoms over several months. However, products are not FDA-approved to treat fibroids, quality varies, and EGCG can interact with medications and affect the liver at high doses. If you’re considering a supplement, review it with your clinician. Drinking brewed green tea is a generally safe alternative for many people.

6) Minimize potential endocrine disruptors

Some chemicals that can mimic or interfere with hormones are under study for reproductive effects. Evidence is still evolving, but simple steps include:

• Use glass or stainless steel for hot foods and drinks; avoid microwaving plastic.
• Choose fragrance-free or “paraben- and phthalate-free” personal care items when possible.
• Wash hands before eating to reduce dust-borne exposures.

7) Protect sleep and manage stress

Chronic stress and poor sleep can worsen pain perception, fatigue, and coping. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep, and use mind–body practices (yoga, paced breathing, mindfulness) to help manage symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy and pelvic floor physical therapy can also be helpful adjuncts.

When natural strategies aren’t enough

Track symptoms (bleeding days, pad/tampon use, pain scores, fatigue). Seek medical care if you experience any of the following:

• Heavy bleeding that soaks through pads/tampons hourly for multiple hours
• Symptoms of anemia (fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, pale skin)
• Rapidly enlarging abdomen or new severe pain
• Fertility concerns or recurrent pregnancy loss

Evidence-based medical options include nonhormonal tranexamic acid for heavy bleeding; combined hormonal contraception or a levonorgestrel-releasing IUD; short-term GnRH agonists; and newer FDA-approved oral GnRH antagonists combined with add-back therapy (elagolix or relugolix combinations) for heavy menstrual bleeding due to fibroids. Uterus-sparing procedures (uterine artery embolization, myomectomy, MRI-guided focused ultrasound) and hysterectomy are effective options depending on your goals and medical history. An obstetrician–gynecologist can help tailor a plan.

Bottom line

Fibroids don’t typically grow forever. Many stabilize or shrink—especially after menopause. While natural approaches can’t cure fibroids, smart lifestyle steps may reduce symptoms, support hormonal balance, and help you feel better while you consider or pursue medical treatments. Partner with a clinician to monitor your fibroids and choose the safest, most effective strategies for you.

Trusted sources

• NIH NICHD: Uterine Fibroids – https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/uterine
• U.S. Office on Women’s Health: Uterine Fibroids – https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/uterine-fibroids
• ACOG Patient FAQ: Uterine Fibroids – https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/uterine-fibroids
• NIEHS (NIH): Vitamin D and Fibroids Research – https://www.niehs.nih.gov/research/atniehs/labs/epi/studies/fibroids
• NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin D Fact Sheet – https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminD-Consumer
• FDA: Medicines for Heavy Menstrual Bleeding Due to Fibroids (e.g., Oriahnn, Myfembree) – https://www.fda.gov/drugs
• NIEHS: Endocrine Disruptors – https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/endocrine

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