Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis is a condition where endometrial tissue, which is normally found in the uterine lining, grows into the uterine muscle wall instead. This can result in an enlarged uterus and heavy, painful periods.

Uterine adenomyosis affects about 20% of women of reproductive age. It is more common in women who have had children or prior uterine surgery. Learn more about adenomyosis below or contact us now to explore the latest treatment options.

Symptoms of Adenomyosis

Each woman’s experience will be different, but common adenomyosis symptoms include:

Heavy bleeding during menstrual periods
Prolonged menstrual cycles
Severe cramps and pelvic pain
Painful intercourse
Chronic fatigue
Bloating
Anemia
Infertility

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Adenomyosis vs Endometriosis: What's the Difference?

Adenomyosis and endometriosis are both conditions that involve the growth of endometrial tissue outside its normal location. However, they are different in several ways.

Adenomyosis occurs only within the uterine wall, while endometriosis occurs outside the uterus, such as on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, or bowels.

Adenomyosis mainly causes heavy and painful periods, while endometriosis can cause pain throughout the menstrual cycle, as well as infertility, bowel or bladder problems, and chronic inflammation.

Adenomyosis can sometimes be diagnosed by ultrasound or MRI, while endometriosis can only be confirmed by laparoscopy, a surgical procedure that involves inserting a camera through a small incision in the abdomen.

Adenomyosis usually goes away after menopause when estrogen levels drop, but endometriosis can persist even after menopause.

Diagnosing Adenomyosis: What to Expect

The exact cause of adenomyosis is unknown, but some possible factors include trauma or inflammation of the uterus, endometriosis, and developmental anomalies. Additional risk factors include increasing age, having children, and having previous uterine surgery.

In order to definitively diagnose adenomyosis, doctors usually start with a physical exam and a pelvic exam to check for any enlargement or tenderness of the uterus. They may order imaging tests (such as ultrasound or MRI) to look for any signs of adenomyosis in the muscular wall of the uterus. Sometimes, a biopsy or a hysteroscopy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions.

Adenomyosis Treatment Options

Hormonal Therapy

Hormonal therapy involves taking medications that reduce estrogen levels or prevent ovulation, such as birth control pills, progestin injections, or hormonal IUDs. This can help reduce the bleeding and pain caused by adenomyosis.

Anti-inflammatory Drugs

For mild cases of adenomyosis, pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs may reduce discomfort. These include over-the-counter or prescription painkillers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen. They can help relieve the inflammation and cramps associated with adenomyosis.

Uterine Artery Embolization

Uterine artery embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that involves blocking the blood supply to the adenomyotic tissue with tiny particles injected through a catheter. This can shrink the tissue and reduce bleeding and pain.

Endometrial Ablation

Endometrial ablation is a surgical procedure that destroys the lining of the uterus with heat, cold, or electricity. This can reduce or stop the menstrual bleeding caused by adenomyosis. However, this procedure is not recommended for women who want to have children in the future.

Hysterectomy

For patients who do not want to have children in the future, this major surgery may be an option. This is the only definitive treatment for adenomyosis that eliminates all symptoms. The treatment of adenomyosis depends on the severity of the symptoms and the patient’s preferences. At the Endometriosis Treatment Center of America, we listen to your concerns and we partner with you to develop a custom treatment plan. With locations in Lake Orion, MI and Birmingham, MI, relief is within reach. Schedule your appointment with us now to learn more about adenomyosis treatments.

Get Relief from Adenomyosis Pelvic Pain Now

If you are suffering from adenomyosis and its debilitating symptoms, you are not alone. There is hope—and help—available for you.

At Endometriosis Treatment Center of America, we are staunchly dedicated to providing women with access to the latest technologies and options for relieving chronic pelvic pain. We specialize in diagnosing and treating adenomyosis and endometriosis with advanced techniques and compassionate care. We understand how these conditions affect your physical and emotional well-being, and we are committed to helping you find relief and restoring your quality of life.

To meet with Michigan adenomyosis specialists for a consultation and explore the treatment options available to you, contact us now.

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