Vitamin D and Uterine Fibroids: Could the Sunshine Vitamin Make a Difference?

When Ada first learned she had uterine fibroids, she was shocked. The heavy bleeding, painful cramps, and constant fatigue she had been struggling with finally made sense. Like many women, she wondered why fibroids had developed and what she could do beyond surgery or medication. In her search for answers, she stumbled upon something unexpected: Vitamin D. Could a nutrient linked to sunlight really influence fibroid growth?

Understanding Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They are very common among women of reproductive age, with research showing that up to 70–80% of women develop fibroids by age 50 (Stewart, 2015).

Not all fibroids cause symptoms, but when they do, the effects can be significant.

Heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, bloating, infertility, and reduced quality of life are some of the challenges women face. The exact cause remains unclear, although genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle factors are known to contribute.

The Vitamin D Connection

Vitamin D, often called the “sunshine vitamin,” is best known for supporting bone strength, immunity, and hormonal balance. Researchers are now discovering that it may also protect against fibroid development.

Women with low Vitamin D levels appear more prone to fibroid growth than those with sufficient levels. This is because Vitamin D helps regulate cell growth and reduces inflammation, both of which are important in controlling abnormal tissue formation such as fibroids.

What Research Shows

Several studies have highlighted the potential link between Vitamin D and fibroid risk:

• Sefah et al. (2023) reported that women with sufficient Vitamin D levels had a 32% lower risk of fibroids compared to those who were deficient.

• Halder et al. (2013) demonstrated in laboratory studies that Vitamin D could shrink fibroid cells and slow their growth.

• Harmon et al. (2022) reported that higher concentrations of Vitamin D decrease the development of fibroids.

• Ciavattini et al. (2016) found that women who took Vitamin D supplements experienced slower fibroid progression compared to non-users.

  
  

Together, these findings suggest that maintaining healthy Vitamin D levels may help reduce the risk of fibroids and could even slow their growth once present.

Why Deficiency Is Common

Despite the availability of sunlight, Vitamin D deficiency is widespread. Factors such as darker skin pigmentation, limited outdoor activity, indoor lifestyles, and inadequate dietary intake all contribute. This is particularly concerning for African and African-American women, who face both higher rates of Vitamin D deficiency and greater risk of fibroids.

Sources of Vitamin D

Ensuring adequate Vitamin D levels benefits not only fibroid prevention but also overall health. Ways to boost Vitamin D include:

• Sunlight exposure: 15–30 minutes of direct sunlight on the skin a few times a week.

• Dietary sources: Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as fortified dairy, eggs, and mushrooms.

• Supplements: Vitamin D capsules or tablets may be recommended in cases of deficiency, but medical guidance is essential for proper dosing.

Final Thoughts

Vitamin D is not a cure for fibroids, but evidence suggests it plays a protective and potentially therapeutic role. For women living with or at risk of fibroids, maintaining healthy Vitamin D levels may serve as a simple yet powerful support strategy.

As Ada discovered, sometimes the most effective answers are not only found in complex medical treatments but also in basic nutrients the body needs to thrive.

To learn from the experiences of other women and gain professional guidance on living healthier, do join our Women’s Health Community.