Folic Acid and Fibroids: What You Need to Know

What’s the connection between folic acid and fibroids? Some women think you can take this and protect yourself from fibroid formation. At the same time, some people think folic acid contributes to fibroid growth. So what's true, and what’s just a fibroid myth? We’ll spill the tea in this revealing blog post.

Folic acid: What is it?

Folic acid is a b vitamin type; in your body, it helps you form healthy new cells. It’s become very important for pregnant women; supplementing this vitamin can help your fetus develop without birth defects. (Keep in mind that folic acid has no impact on fertility, despite its vital role in fetal development.)

What are fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are growths that form in or on your uterus, or outside the organ, attached by stalk-like formations. They are typically non-cancerous. But, while they often start as small tumors, they may grow as large as a cantaloupe (or bigger.) Still, for most women, fibroids stay between 1 mm and 10 cm in size (by diameter).

Now, there are different types of fibroids, classified based on where they develop. Many women develop subserosal fibroids (they form on the outer wall of the uterus). There are also submucosal fibroids, forming inside the uterine cavity.

Slightly less common? Intramural fibroids, forming within the muscular wall of the uterus. Finally, there are pedunculated fibroids. These tumors form without direct attachment to your uterus. In fact, the only connection they form is through a stalk-like attachment leading to the inner or outer surface of your uterus.

Folic Acid and Fibroids: What’s the Connection?

There is no scientific evidence to suggest that folic acid increases your fibroid risk. Instead, taking this supplement can help balance your diet, especially if you are trying to conceive. Or if you’re currently pregnant.

Understanding the best and worst foods for fibroids is crucial. Steer clear of processed folic acid sources (these include cereal, bread and pasta.) Instead, look for healthier folate sources—we love to get this b vitamin leafy greens, beans, and oranges—all dietary staples that could also help you avoid unwanted fibroid symptoms.

Now, how much folic acid do you need each day? A woman who isn’t pregnant or trying for a baby needs about 400 micrograms each day, either through diet or with a supplement. But for women who are hoping to start or expand their family, you should add a daily folate supplement to your diet. And the best time to start is about 3 months before you start trying to get pregnant.

Want to learn more about your fibroid diagnosis? Are you hoping to explore minimally invasive fibroid treatments? We invite you to request a consultation with our Dallas area fibroid specialists! Together, we can discuss the medical and lifestyle choices available to you right now that can help you find symptom relief!