Have you ever heard of adenomyosis?
It’s a condition many women experience but might not even know about. Affecting up to 20–35% of women, adenomyosis can cause significant discomfort and disrupt daily life. Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed or are just curious about this condition, we’re here to help you understand what it is, how it’s diagnosed, and the treatment options available.
What is Adenomyosis?
Adenomyosis occurs when cells of the tissue lining the uterus (called the endometrium) grow into the muscle layer of the uterus. This displaced tissue continues to act as it normally would, breaking down and bleeding during your menstrual cycle. However, because it’s trapped in the muscle, it can cause symptoms like:
- Heavy or irregular periods.
- Severe cramping or sharp pelvic pain.
- Pain during sex (dyspareunia).
- Chronic pelvic pain, even outside your menstrual cycle.
- Fatigue or low energy due to blood loss and chronic pain.
- Painful bowel movements or urination during menstruation.
Interestingly, some women with adenomyosis experience no symptoms at all. However, for those who do, the condition can have a profound impact on daily life. Many women report difficulties at work, interrupted sleep, and strained relationships due to the chronic nature of the pain and discomfort.
Adenomyosis usually affects women during their reproductive years and typically resolves after menopause.
How is Adenomyosis Diagnosed?
The Role of Ultrasound
If your doctor suspects adenomyosis, they may recommend an ultrasound as a first step. While it doesn’t provide a perfect diagnosis, ultrasound can offer useful clues about what’s happening in your uterus.
What About MRI?
MRI isn’t typically the first test used to diagnose adenomyosis. However, it might be suggested in certain situations, especially if more detailed images are needed to guide treatment.
Why Diagnosis Can Be Tricky
Getting an accurate diagnosis for adenomyosis can be challenging. This condition often overlaps with others, like endometriosis or fibroids, leading to delays in recognition. Many women describe years of being dismissed or misdiagnosed, enduring worsening symptoms before finding answers.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. It’s common for women to feel unheard when explaining their pain or heavy bleeding. Raising awareness about adenomyosis is essential to improving earlier detection and care.
Treatment Options for Adenomyosis
Managing adenomyosis is all about finding the right approach for you. Let’s look at the options:
1. Managing Pain with Medications
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like NSAIDs (ibuprofen) or paracetamol can help ease pain.
- If these don’t work, your doctor may recommend other treatments.
2. Hormonal Treatments
Because adenomyosis is influenced by estrogen, hormonal therapies can be effective in reducing pain and heavy bleeding. Options include:
- Combined oral contraceptive pills.
- Progestogen treatments, which come as tablets, implants, or intrauterine devices (IUDs).
The choice of hormonal treatment depends on your symptoms, preferences and lifestyle.
3. Surgery for Adenomyosis
For some women, surgery might be recommended if other treatments haven’t worked:
- Conservative Surgery: This involves removing the affected areas while preserving the uterus, which may be an option for those who wish to maintain fertility.
- Hysterectomy: Removing the uterus can cure adenomyosis, especially if symptoms are severe and childbearing is no longer a goal.
If surgery might be recommended for you, your doctor will discuss the potential benefits and risks with you, including how it might impact your symptoms and overall health.
4. Non-Pharmacological and Non-Surgical Approaches
Although some people explore non-surgical options like lifestyle changes or complementary therapies, it’s important to note that there isn’t strong evidence supporting their effectiveness for adenomyosis.
Living with Adenomyosis
If you’ve been diagnosed with adenomyosis, you’re not alone. Managing this condition starts with understanding your options and working closely with your healthcare provider to create a plan tailored to your needs.
Many women describe the emotional and physical toll of adenomyosis. Struggling with severe pain, heavy bleeding, or fatigue can make everyday tasks feel impossible. Others share the frustration of waiting years for a diagnosis or having to advocate strongly for their symptoms to be taken seriously.
Here are some tips to help you navigate life with adenomyosis:
- Track Your Symptoms: Keeping a record of your symptoms can help your doctor recommend the best treatment.
- Seek Support: Join a support group or talk to others who understand what you’re going through.
- Focus on Self-Care: Prioritise rest, relaxation, and activities that help manage stress.
- Advocate for Your Health: Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek a second opinion if you feel your concerns aren’t being addressed.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you’re experiencing heavy periods, severe pain, or other symptoms that affect your daily life, it’s time to seek help. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference in managing adenomyosis and improving your quality of life.
Adenomyosis can feel overwhelming, but with the right information and support, you can take control of your health.
At Bloom, we’re dedicated to helping women at every stage of life. If you have been diagnosed with adenomyosis, or experience the adenomyosis symptoms described in this article, schedule a consultation with your GP today to discuss your symptoms and potentially a referral to our experienced gynaecologists at Bloom Women’s Health.
Do you want to learn more?
Learn more about the Symptoms of Adenomyosis.
Learn about the differences between Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, read our article https://bwhealth.com.au/blog/pcos-vs-endometriosis-differences-symptoms-treatment/
