Adenomyosis
Learn more about adenomyosis and how it is treated.
Overview
Adenomyosis is a condition in which the lining of the uterus grows into the muscular walls of the uterus and causes uncomfortable symptoms.
In a regular menstrual cycle, the endometrial tissue that lines your uterus thickens around the time of ovulation and then sheds during your period.
However, if you have adenomyosis, some endometrial tissue forms pockets within the wall of your uterus. The endometrial tissue will continue to thicken every month and build up within the wall of your uterus.
Symptoms
The symptoms of adenomyosis vary from person to person. They may include any of the following:
- Painful periods
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- An enlarged uterus and bloating
- Fertility concerns
Diagnosis
If you have symptoms of adenomyosis, a gynaecologist can confirm the diagnosis with medical imaging such as a pelvic or transvaginal ultrasound and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Treatment
The primary treatments for adenomyosis aim to help you manage your symptoms. A hysterectomy may be recommended in some cases. A gynaecologist will work with you to decide on a care plan that is specific to your needs.
Oral pain medication
Pain medication such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) can help relieve pain during your period.
Tranexamic acid
This non-hormonal medication can be taken on days when you have heavy bleeding to reduce your blood loss.
Progestin-only hormone therapy
Birth control medication that uses only progestin (such as IUDs, under-the-skin implants, birth control shots or pills) can help relieve symptoms by making your periods lighter or stopping them altogether.
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists
This type of medication relieves symptoms by causing a reversible, medical menopause. It may be used in severe cases of adenomyosis.
GnRH antagonists
This type of medication causes your ovaries to stop producing both estrogen and progesterone which helps relieve symptoms of adenomyosis.
Hysterectomy
If other treatment does not help, surgical removal of the uterus with a hysterectomy will stop adenomyosis. Patients who choose this treatment may keep their ovaries and fallopian tubes.