Adenomyosis – Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options

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Adenomyosis – Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options

 

If you’re feeling symptoms that appear to be related to your reproductive health, it could be adenomyosis. This condition is estimated to affect up to one in five women and can cause pain in the lower abdomen, heavy periods and other issues. In this article, we’ll discuss what adenomyosis is, how it's caused, its symptoms and the various treatments available to help manage this condition.

 

What is Adenomyosis?


Adenomyosis is a condition that results when the inner lining of the uterus (the endometrium) breaks through the muscle wall of the uterus (the myometrium). This can cause the uterus to become enlarged and can lead to heavy, painful periods. Adenomyosis is also sometimes called “endo-metriosis of the uterus” or “internal endometriosis.”

While adenomyosis is similar to endometriosis, it is important to note that they are two distinct conditions. Endometriosis occurs when tissue from the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus, on other organs in the body such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or even in the abdominal cavity. Adenomyosis, on the other hand, specifically refers to growth of endometrial tissue into the uterine muscle wall itself.

There are several theories as to how adenomyosis develops, but it is still not clear what exactly causes this condition. It is thought that adenomyosis may be caused by:



  • Previous surgery on the uterus, such as a C-section or D & C (dilation and curettage) procedure


  • Inflammation of the uterine lining (endometritis)


  • Injury to the uterine lining during childbirth


 

While anyone with a uterus can develop adenomyosis, it is most common in women over age 35 who have had multiple pregnancies.

 

What are the Causes of Adenomyosis?


Adenomyosis is a condition that results when the endometrium, or lining of the uterus, breaks through the muscle wall of the uterus. This can cause the uterus to enlarge and can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding and pain during menstruation. Adenomyosis is most common in women over age 40 who have had children, but it can occur at any age. There is no known cause of adenomyosis, but it is thought to be related to hormonal changes. Treatment for adenomyosis may include medication, surgery, or both.

 

Who is at Risk for Developing Adenomyosis?


Adenomyosis is most common in women who are in their 40s and 50s. However, it can occur in any age group. The condition is also more common in women who have had children. Other risk factors include:



  • A history of endometriosis


  • A family history of adenomyosis


  • Previous uterine surgery


  • Certain medical conditions, such as autoimmune disorders


 

Signs and Symptoms of Adenomyosis


Adenomyosis is a medical condition that can cause heavy bleeding, cramping, and pain in the pelvic region. The symptoms of adenomyosis can vary from woman to woman and range from mild to severe. Some women with adenomyosis may have no symptoms at all while others may experience debilitating pain and heavy bleeding.

The most common symptom of adenomyosis is abnormal uterine bleeding. This can include heavier than normal menstrual flow, prolonged menstrual periods, and spotting or bleeding between periods. Other symptoms include pelvic pain and cramping, particularly during menstruation or intercourse. Pain may also be felt in the lower back or rectum. Some women with adenomyosis may also experience fatigue, bloating, and nausea.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to speak with your doctor as soon as possible. Adenomyosis can often be mistaken for other conditions such as endometriosis or fibroids. A proper diagnosis is essential in order to develop an effective treatment plan.

 

How is Adenomyosis Diagnosed?


Adenomyosis is a condition that can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms mimic those of other conditions, like endometriosis and uterine fibroids. There are several ways that your doctor can confirm a diagnosis of adenomyosis, which may include a pelvic exam, transvaginal ultrasound, MRI, or biopsy.

During a pelvic exam, your doctor will feel for any abnormal growths or changes in the shape of your uterus. A transvaginal ultrasound allows your doctor to get a closer look at your uterus and check for any thickening of the uterine wall. An MRI can also be used to look for adenomyosis, but this is usually only done if other methods are inconclusive.

A biopsy is the only way to definitively diagnose adenomyosis, but this is usually only done if other methods have been unable to confirm a diagnosis. During a biopsy, a small sample of tissue is taken from the lining of the uterus and examined under a microscope.

 

Treatments for Adenomyosis


There are several treatment options available for adenomyosis, depending on the severity of symptoms. For mild cases of adenomyosis, over-the-counter pain relievers and Ibuprofen may be recommended to help relieve cramping and pain. If symptoms are more severe, your doctor may prescribe hormonal birth control pills or a progesterone-releasing intrauterine device (IUD) to help reduce the size of the uterine lining and relieve symptoms. For women who have heavy bleeding or severe pain associated with adenomyosis, a hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus) may be recommended. For more information, you can contact us at (844)-969-4325  or visit WoW Health.