Can Birth Control Pills Shrink Fibroids?

If you are experiencing uncomfortable symptoms associated with uterine fibroids—like heavy menstrual bleeding or painful cramping—you might wonder whether birth control pills can help shrink them and provide some relief.

The short answer is it’s complicated.

While certain forms of birth control may help reduce symptoms by regulating the menstrual cycle and decreasing bleeding, they are not a cure and do not shrink fibroids themselves.

Keep reading to find out, “Can birth control pills shrink fibroids?” Below, you’ll also learn the complex relationship between hormonal birth control pills and fibroids and discover how the skilled specialists at Georgia Fibroids can help alleviate your symptoms.

Birth Control and Fibroids: A Complex Relationship

The link between hormonal birth control pills and uterine fibroids primarily centers on symptom management through hormone regulation—not direct treatment.

Fibroids, non-cancerous tumors that develop in or on the uterine wall, are influenced by imbalances with estrogen and progesterone hormones. While the exact cause of fibroids remains unclear, research indicates these hormones play a significant role in their growth.

The effect of hormonal birth control pills on fibroid growth can vary, depending largely on the specific circumstances of each woman’s condition.

Can Taking Birth Control Prevent Fibroid Growth?

Taking birth control pills typically does not shrink existing fibroids or prevent new fibroids from developing. Whether they can reduce your overall fibroid risk, however, remains uncertain.

Recent studies highlight contrasting findings among different ethnic groups: one study in 2024 indicated that Black women starting oral contraceptives before age 17 may lower their future fibroid risk, while another study suggested an increased risk among Han Chinese women using oral contraceptives.

Although these studies do not provide a direct comparison, they underscore the complexity of determining the impact of hormonal birth control on fibroid growth.

Can Birth Control Pills Alleviate Fibroid Symptoms?

Though birth control pills are not typically effective in shrinking existing fibroids, they may offer some benefit in effectively managing their symptoms (e.g., heavy bleeding and pelvic pain).

This relief is temporary, however, and dependent on continued medication use.

If you are experiencing disruptive symptoms from uterine fibroids, talk to your doctor to find out whether birth control is right for you.

Can Birth Control Make Fibroids Worse?

The impact of birth control on fibroids varies among women. While some may find relief, others may experience worsening symptoms.

The effect of birth control on fibroids is not universally predictable and depends on several factors, including:

• Type of birth control pill
• Specific characteristics of the fibroids
• Hormonal sensitivity

Your primary care physician or OBGYN can provide personalized guidance, evaluate potential risks and benefits, and help you determine the most appropriate treatment plan for managing fibroids and associated symptoms.

Low-Dose Birth Control for Fibroids: The Perfect Compromise?

When considering treatment options for managing fibroids and associated symptoms, low-dose birth control pills may be the perfect compromise for many women. Here’s why:

• Hormone regulation—Unlike standard birth control formulations, low-dose options contain lower levels of estrogen and progesterone (key factors in fibroid growth). Consistent and low-level hormones may help regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce fibroid symptoms.
• Steady hormone levels—Fluctuation in estrogen and progesterone levels contribute to the growth of fibroids. Low-dose birth control helps stabilize these hormones more gently, helping manage symptoms without stimulating fibroid growth.
• Minimized hormonal impact—Lower hormone levels in these pills are generally thought to lower the risk of fibroid symptoms and growth.

Safe, Effective Outpatient Treatment at Georgia Fibroids

If you’re interested in a more permanent solution to fibroid pain, request a consultation with one of our fibroid specialists in Georgia to determine if uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is right for you.

Our fibroid specialists offer decades of experience in providing this safe, effective, non-invasive treatment.