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What is Adenomyosis?

What is Adenomyosis?

Edited by: TOP DOCTORS® at 02/04/2023

Adenomyosis or internal endometriosis is a thickening of the uterus that occurs when the endometrial tissue, which normally covers the uterus, is passed to the external muscular walls of the uterus.

Causes

The cause is unknown. Sometimes, adenomyosis can produce a mass or tumor within the uterus, called adenomyoma. The disease usually occurs in women over 30 who have had children.

Specific symptoms

  • Heavy or prolonged and uncontrolled menstrual bleeding.
  • Painful menstruation that progressively worsens.
  • Pelvic pain during intercourse.
  • Chronic pelvic pain.

It is important to look for a specialist in Gynecology when any of these symptoms are detected.

How to detect it?

During a pelvic exam, the doctor may find an enlarged and slightly softened uterus. The review may also reveal a mass or tenderness in the uterus.

Ultrasound of the uterus can help differentiate between adenomyosis and other uterine tumors. An MRI is useful when ultrasound does not produce definitive results.

Treatment

Most women have some adenomyosis as they approach menopause, but few women have symptoms and most do not require any treatment.

In some cases, analgesics may be needed. Birth control pills and an intrauterine device (IUD) containing progesterone may help decrease profuse bleeding. In some cases, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus or womb) may be necessary in women with severe or constant symptoms who have not improved with medical treatment.

Expectations after treatments

A hysterectomy completely relieves symptoms, which can usually go away after menopause.

 

Obstetrics & Gynecology in Medellín