You may or may not have heard many things about adenomyosis, but it remains a perplexing problem. Adenomyosis is basically a uterine disorder where the cells that normally form a lining inside the uterus, also grow in the muscle wall of the uterus.
It is a condition that causes the uterus to thicken and enlarge. It occurs when the endometrial tissue grows into the outer muscular walls of the uterus, causing the uterus to enlarge in size and leading to abnormal uterine bleeding and painful periods.
Although it is not a life-threatening condition on its own, it can cause severe discomfort and lead to complications.
The displaced tissue continues to act normally every month which means thickening, breaking down, and bleeding during each menstrual cycle. This eventually causes the related symptoms and makes the uterine walls grow thicker. It is necessary to be aware that adenomyosis and endometriosis are different. Both are disorders that involve the endometrial tissue and both conditions can be painful.
Although some women with endometriosis often have similar symptoms, they are different conditions. In endometriosis, cells similar to those that line the uterus are found in other parts of the body.
Adenomyosis is more likely to cause heavy menstrual bleeding. The endometrial tissue grows into the muscle of the uterus in adenomyosis, while for endometriosis, it grows outside the uterus and may involve the ovaries, fallopian tubes, pelvic side walls, or bowel. You should consult your doctor if you suspect either adenomyosis or endometriosis.
The true cause of adenomyosis remains unknown. But it is established that its growth depends on estrogen which is why it is seen in women in their reproductive years. The main symptom is mild to severe pain, but you may not experience pain at all. Other symptoms may include prolonged menstrual cramps, heavy menstrual bleeding or pain during sexual intercourse.
Diagnosis includes a complete medical evaluation. Non-invasive diagnosis is possible and the primary test recommended is a transvaginal ultrasound. The test should preferably be performed by a gynaecologist with an understanding of the disease and your medical history.
You can benefit from individualised treatment to achieve a good quality of life and high success rates in IVF. Support and guidance when facing adenomyosis is essential just as the counselling of a specialist can also guide you through the difficulties of achieving your goals.
There is a close relationship between the occurrence of adenomyosis and infertility. Delaying pregnancy to your late 30s and 40s may increase the impact of adenomyosis on fertility. If you are facing difficulties with conception, you should consult a fertility specialist to help decide the best course of action.
Experts don’t know why some people develop adenomyosis. The condition is more common in women who have had children, but women that have never been pregnant can also develop it. Adenomyosis tends to affect women who have had at least one pregnancy or child, but it may also make it difficult to conceive for the first time.
There may be no symptoms, however, you may experience painful menstrual cramps, heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, painful intercourse, an enlarged uterus, or infertility.
The diagnosis is based on the symptoms. Tests include pelvic examination, ultrasound, imaging scans, and biopsy. Treatments that can ease pain, heavy bleeding, and other symptoms are desirable. Adenomyosis symptoms often recede after menopause. The complications include the risk of anaemia from heavy menstrual bleeding.
If you experience life-disrupting symptoms from adenomyosis, you can find relief with hormonal treatments and pain relievers. A hysterectomy is a permanent solution that provides long-term symptom relief. After menopause, symptoms should disappear. HIFU (High Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is a non-invasive method of treating adenomyosis.
You should seek medical assistance if you experience symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, severely painful cramps, or painful intercourse. Talk to your healthcare provider about ways to ease symptoms. Certain hormonal medications can help.
