Adenomyosis is a condition in which the inner lining of the uterus (the endometrium) breaks through the muscle wall of the uterus (the myometrium). This can cause menstrual cramps, lower abdominal pressure, and bloating before menstrual periods and can result in heavy periods.
Adenomyosis originates when endometrial tissue, which typically lines the uterus, exists within and grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, the myometrium. This leads to an enlarged uterus and can bring about painful and heavy periods.
Although the exact cause of adenomyosis remains unknown, it's related to female reproductive hormones, especially oestrogen. Factors that may lead to adenomyosis include childbirth, uterine surgeries, and age. Most commonly found in women aged 40 to 50, it's not uncommon for younger women to also be affected.
Immediate medical consultation is imperative if one experiences prolonged heavy periods, severe menstrual cramps, or pain during intercourse. Early diagnosis can improve quality of life, as treatments can help manage the pain and associated symptoms.
While some women with adenomyosis might be asymptomatic, common symptoms associated with this condition include:
It's worth noting that symptoms can range from mild to severe and the experience can differ from one individual to another.
Using contraceptive pills, hormone-releasing intrauterine devices (IUDs), or hormone patches can help manage heavy menstrual bleeding and pain associated with adenomyosis.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can be prescribed to reduce pain and menstrual bleeding.
These drugs halt menstrual cycles and might reduce the symptoms of adenomyosis, albeit their usage is usually for a short duration due to potential side effects.
Pelvic physiotherapy can assist women with adenomyosis by alleviating pelvic pain and improving muscle function. Our expert Pelvic Physiotherapist, Caitlin McPhee, offers specialised therapies that can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with the condition.
This procedure involves the destruction of the lining of the uterus to reduce or stop bleeding. However, it may not be effective if the adenomyosis has deeply penetrated into the muscle wall of the uterus.
Used mainly for treating fibroids, this procedure involves placing small particles into the blood vessels leading to the uterus, thereby cutting off blood flow to adenomyosis areas.
In severe cases where other treatments aren't effective, removing the uterus might be recommended. This procedure provides a definitive cure for adenomyosis.
Awareness of the condition, coupled with changes like exercise, dietary modifications, and stress management, can support those with adenomyosis in handling their symptoms more effectively.
Using contraceptive pills, hormone-releasing intrauterine devices (IUDs), or hormone patches can help manage heavy menstrual bleeding and pain associated with adenomyosis.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can be prescribed to reduce pain and menstrual bleeding.
These drugs halt menstrual cycles and might reduce the symptoms of adenomyosis, albeit their usage is usually for a short duration due to potential side effects.
Pelvic physiotherapy can assist women with adenomyosis by alleviating pelvic pain and improving muscle function. Our expert Pelvic Physiotherapist, Caitlin McPhee, offers specialised therapies that can help reduce pain and discomfort associated with the condition.
This procedure involves the destruction of the lining of the uterus to reduce or stop bleeding. However, it may not be effective if the adenomyosis has deeply penetrated into the muscle wall of the uterus.
Used mainly for treating fibroids, this procedure involves placing small particles into the blood vessels leading to the uterus, thereby cutting off blood flow to adenomyosis areas.
In severe cases where other treatments aren't effective, removing the uterus might be recommended. This procedure provides a definitive cure for adenomyosis.
Awareness of the condition, coupled with changes like exercise, dietary modifications, and stress management, can support those with adenomyosis in handling their symptoms more effectively.
