Chapter 36: An Intro to Adenomyosis

I don't have adenomyosis (that I'm aware of), but a lot of endometriosis patients have both conditions. It's less well-known than endo, so I figured it would be good to cover it here. I can't speak from personal experience on this one, but I hope the info is helpful.

Adenomyosis occurs when the tissue that normally lines the uterus (endometrial tissue) grows into the muscular wall of the uterus. The tissue continues to act normally during each menstrual cycle- thickening, breaking down and bleeding. It causes heavy periods and an enlarged uterus.

Unlike endometriosis, adenomyosis usually resolves itself after menopause. Also, as I mentioned in my last blog, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) is a cure for adenomyosis, but not necessarily a cure for endo. Hormonal treatments can also help with the pain adenomyosis causes.

Like endometriosis, doctors aren't entirely sure what causes adenomyosis. Risk factors include: Prior uterine surgery, such as C-section, fibroid removal, or dilatation and curettage (D&C), childbirth and middle age. Adenomyosis is most common in women in their 40s and 50s.

Symptoms of adenomyosis are heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, severe cramping or sharp, knifelike pelvic pain during menstruation, chronic pelvic pain and pain with intercourse. Also, your uterus may become enlarged, causing tenderness or pressure in your uterus.

While adenomyosis isn't life threatening, it can cause chronic pain that can disrupt your life. Also, heavy bleeding can cause chronic anemia, which causes fatigue and other health problems.

If you suspect that you have adenomyosis, contact your OB/GYN. It can sometimes be diagnosed through an MRI or sonogram, whereas surgery is the only way to diagnose endometriosis. Additionally, if the uterus is significantly enlarged, it can sometimes be diagnosed during a pelvic exam. As always, if you suspect that you have a chronic illness, try to compose a list of symptoms and their triggers and how often they appear. It helps your doctors get a more complete picture of what you could be dealing with.

Good luck! Stay safe!