Adenomyosis is a disease that occurs when the cells that normally line the uterus grow into the muscular tissue of the uterine wall. This can cause painful, heavy periods and chronic pelvic pain.
The cause of adenomyosis is not fully understood. Some researchers believe that it is the result of damage to the inner wall of the uterus during pregnancy, labor, delivery, or a surgical procedure.
Sometimes adenomyosis does not cause any symptoms. But when symptoms are present, they can include:
When symptoms occur, the evaluation of suspected adenomyosis may include:
But adenomyosis can only for sure be diagnosed when a pathologist examines the uterus after a hysterectomy.
Pelvic pain and heavy menstrual bleeding from adenomyosis can be relieved with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and hormone therapy. A hysterectomy may be needed if you have severe symptoms but are not approaching menopause. Symptoms often go away after menopause is complete or after hysterectomy.
Other procedures may be tried to help relieve symptoms if medicine doesn't work and you don't want a hysterectomy. During these procedures, the doctor removes or shrinks adenomyosis in the uterus without removing the whole uterus.
Current as of: November 27, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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