Adenomyosis

Do you suffer from heavy or painful periods, or pelvic pain? You may have Adenomyosis. 

What is Adenomyosis?

Adenomyosis is a medical condition where the uterine lining (Endometrium), that comes out as menstruation, is also found growing inside the muscle part of the uterus (Myometrium). Doctors don’t know why Adenomyosis occurs however it is more common as women age, after having children or with any past surgery on the uterus.

Is Adenomyosis like Endometriosis?

The two conditions are different however similar conditions. Endometriosis is where the uterine lining (Endometrium) grows outside the uterus. Endometriosis causes painful periods, pelvic pain and infertility.

What does having Adenomyosis feel like?

Adenomyosis may cause the menstrual period to be heavy, prolonged or painful. Bleeding can occur in between periods. Pain in the pelvis between menstruation may also occur. Sexual intercourse may be painful.

How do I know if I have Adenomyosis?

A specialist detailed ultrasound of the pelvis can detect it, as can an MRI scan.

How can Adenomyosis be managed?

Taking painkillers can help reduce any discomfort, and anti-inflammatory painkillers may also reduce menstrual flow a little.
Adenomyosis is sensitive to the normal female hormones so stabilising them with the contraceptive pill can be beneficial, reducing menstrual flow and pain with the added benefit of skipping periods totally. Reducing Adenomyosis growth with a Mirena intrauterine device (IUD) will significantly help in menstrual flow and pain.

Surgery such as an endometrial ablation does not seal or shrink adenomyosis so is only useful in a small number of select cases.

If your family is complete a hysterectomy, removing the uterus, will cure the condition. Your ovaries can be retained so you won’t go through menopause or feel any different hormonally. The only difference will be no more heavy or painful periods! Create Health doctors have had specialty training to perform Hysterectomy with minimally invasive advanced techniques, such as laparoscopic hysterectomy.

Please make an appointment with one of the Create Health doctors if you would like any further information, or to find out if Adenomyosis may be affecting you. We are here to help!

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