Can Uterine Fibroids Be Prevented? Lifestyle & Risk Reduction

Here’s a common question I hear: “Dr. Rae, is there anything I can do to prevent fibroids?”

The short answer? You can’t always prevent them. Some risk factors—like race, family history, and age—are out of our control.

But lifestyle does play a role, and there are steps you can take to lower your risk or potentially slow their growth.

Nutrition Matters

• Eat more fruits and veggies: Plant-rich diets, especially leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale, may be protective.

• Cut down on red meat: High consumption of beef and processed meats has been linked to fibroid risk.

• Boost vitamin D: Women with low vitamin D levels are more likely to develop fibroids. Sunshine and supplementation can help.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

• Excess body fat can increase estrogen levels, which may fuel fibroid growth. Regular physical activity—especially moderate to vigorous exercise—can help reduce your risk.

Manage Stress

• Stress doesn’t “cause” fibroids, but chronic stress can throw hormones out of balance and worsen inflammation. Mindfulness, yoga, journaling (hey, I’m working on a guided journal for this!), and setting boundaries can make a difference.

Limit Alcohol & Caffeine

• Studies suggest that high alcohol intake—especially beer—may increase fibroid risk. Moderation is key.

The Reality Check: Even with the healthiest lifestyle, some women will still develop fibroids. Prevention is not a guarantee, but these habits support overall reproductive and whole-body health.

Takeaway: Prevention isn’t about perfection. It’s about creating conditions where your body can thrive, whether or not fibroids show up.

TRUSTED RESOURCES ABOUT FIBROIDS:

1. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services – Office on Women’s Health

Website: womenshealth.gov/fibroids

Why it's reliable: Government-backed, evidence-based, and reviewed by medical experts. Offers clear explanations, symptoms, treatments, and FAQs.

2. Mayo Clinic

Website: mayoclinic.org

Why it's reliable: Trusted medical institution. Offers in-depth, medically reviewed information on fibroids including causes, diagnosis, and treatment options.

3. The Fibroid Foundation

Website: fibroidfoundation.org Instagram: @fibroidfoundation

Why it's reliable: Patient-centered nonprofit with expert advisors. Shares both scientific info and patient experiences. Active advocacy organization.

4. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)

Website: acog.org

Why it's reliable: Professional organization for OB-GYNs. Provides clinical guidance and educational material reviewed by physicians.

5. Black Women's Health Imperative (BWHI)

Website: bwhi.org Instagram: @blkwomenshealth

Why it's reliable: Focuses on the health of Black women, who are disproportionately affected by fibroids. Offers culturally relevant, fact-based content and advocacy.

DISCLAIMER:

The medical information provided on this website is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Nothing on this site should be construed as individualized medical consultation or a replacement for the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of your physician or other licensed healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance on any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk. The site owner assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content, or for any outcomes resulting from the use of this information.