Prevention

There is no known treatment that prevents uterine fibroids. But getting regular exercise may help. According to one study, the more exercise women have, the less likely they are to get uterine fibroids.⁵

Preventing fibroids from coming back after treatment

It is common for fibroids to grow back after treatment. The only treatment that absolutely prevents regrowth of fibroids is removal of the entire uterus, called hysterectomy. After hysterectomy, you cannot get pregnant. While many women report an improved quality of life after hysterectomy, there are also possible long-term side effects to think about. For more information, see the topic Hysterectomy.

Home Treatment

Home treatment can ease menstrual period pain and anemia that may be linked to uterine fibroids.

Tips for relieving menstrual pain

Painful menstrual periods (dysmenorrhea) are one of the most common symptoms of fibroids.

Why fibroids cause pain is not known. Try one or more of the following tips to help relieve your menstrual pain:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, help relieve menstrual cramps and pain.
• Apply heat to the lower abdomen by using a heating pad or hot water bottle or taking a warm bath. Heat improves blood flow and may improve pelvic pain.
• Lie down and elevate your legs by putting a pillow under your knees. This may help relieve pain.
• Lie on your side and bring your knees up to your chest. This will help relieve back pressure.
• Use pads instead of tampons.
• Get exercise, which improves blood flow and may decrease pain.

Tips for preventing anemia

Anemia occurs when your body cannot produce blood as fast as it is being lost. As a result, you have fewer red blood cells in the blood. A test called a complete blood count (CBC) can tell you whether you have anemia. Increasing the amount of iron in your diet may help prevent anemia.