A large review of 31 studies involving over 55,000 women found that certain vitamins might help with uterine fibroids - non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause heavy bleeding and pain. The research suggests that taking vitamin D supplements and eating foods rich in vitamin A (like liver and dairy) may help reduce the size of these growths. Most studies focused on vitamin D, showing it could be especially helpful. However, researchers need more evidence about vitamins E and K before making strong recommendations.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) affect uterine fibroids - common non-cancerous growths that can cause painful, heavy periods
  • Who participated: Over 55,000 women across 31 different studies from around the world
  • Key finding: Vitamin D supplements and animal-based vitamin A foods appear to help shrink fibroid size, while low vitamin D levels may increase fibroid risk
  • What it means for you: If you have fibroids, talk to your doctor about checking your vitamin D levels and possibly taking supplements, but don’t expect vitamins alone to solve the problem

The Research Details

This systematic review analyzed 31 previously published studies that looked at the connection between fat-soluble vitamins and uterine fibroids. The researchers searched through thousands of scientific papers to find the best quality studies on this topic. They included different types of research: studies comparing women with and without fibroids, clinical trials testing vitamin supplements, and studies following women over time to see who developed fibroids.

By combining results from multiple studies with over 55,000 women total, this review provides much stronger evidence than any single study could. This approach helps researchers spot patterns and draw more reliable conclusions about whether vitamins really affect fibroids.

The researchers used a systematic approach to find and evaluate studies, which reduces bias. However, the individual studies varied in quality and design, and most focused heavily on vitamin D while largely ignoring vitamins E and K.

What the Results Show

The strongest evidence showed that vitamin D supplementation may help reduce fibroid size. Women with higher vitamin D levels in their blood also appeared less likely to develop fibroids in the first place. Additionally, getting vitamin A from animal sources (like meat, fish, and dairy products) was linked to smaller fibroids. Most of the 31 studies focused on vitamin D, making it the most well-researched vitamin for fibroid treatment.

The research on vitamins E and K was very limited, with no studies examining vitamin K at all. Some studies looked at overall vitamin intake from food versus supplements, suggesting that the source of vitamins might matter. The relationship between vitamins and fibroids appeared stronger for fibroid size than for preventing fibroids entirely.

This review confirms what some smaller studies have suggested about vitamin D and fibroids. It’s the first comprehensive look at all fat-soluble vitamins together, revealing major gaps in research about vitamins E and K that future studies should address.

The studies used different methods to measure vitamin levels and fibroid size, making direct comparisons difficult. Most research was observational, meaning it can’t prove vitamins directly cause changes in fibroids. The review also couldn’t determine optimal vitamin doses or treatment duration.

The Bottom Line

Consider having your vitamin D levels checked if you have fibroids, as supplementation may help reduce their size. Include vitamin A-rich animal foods in your diet, such as liver, fish, and dairy products. However, don’t rely on vitamins alone - work with your healthcare provider for comprehensive fibroid management.

Women diagnosed with uterine fibroids, especially those experiencing symptoms like heavy bleeding or pelvic pain. Women at higher risk for vitamin D deficiency (limited sun exposure, darker skin, northern climates) should pay particular attention to these findings.

The studies didn’t clearly establish how long vitamin supplementation takes to show effects on fibroid size. Most clinical trials lasted several months, so expect to wait at least 3-6 months to see potential benefits.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Log daily vitamin D supplement intake and track menstrual symptoms like bleeding heaviness, cycle length, and pelvic pain intensity on a 1-10 scale
  • Set daily reminders to take vitamin D supplements and track consumption of vitamin A-rich foods like salmon, eggs, and dairy products
  • Track symptoms monthly and correlate with vitamin intake patterns to identify personal responses, while scheduling regular check-ups with healthcare providers to monitor fibroid size

This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting new supplements or changing your treatment plan for uterine fibroids.