Adenomyosis (ad-uh-no-my-O-sis) is a condition that affects many women, especially those in their 30s and 40s. Despite its prevalence, it’s often misunderstood and misdiagnosed, leading to years of unnecessary discomfort.
If you’re experiencing heavy periods, chronic pelvic pain, or other unexplained symptoms, adenomyosis could be the underlying cause. This blog post will help you understand what adenomyosis is, its symptoms, causes, and the various treatment options available – including Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), a less invasive treatment option offered here at ECCO Medical.
What Is Adenomyosis?
Adenomyosis occurs when the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus (endometrium) begins to grow into the muscle wall of the uterus. This condition causes the uterine walls to thicken, leading to an enlarged and often tender uterus. This can significantly impact your day-to-day life, especially if it goes untreated.
While adenomyosis can be common – affecting about 20-35% of women – it’s often misdiagnosed because its symptoms overlap with other conditions like fibroids or endometriosis. Understanding this condition is the first step toward finding relief.
Symptoms Of Adenomyosis
Adenomyosis symptoms can vary in intensity, but they typically include:
- Menstrual Pain: Severe menstrual cramps are a common symptom. These aren’t your typical cramps; they can be intense enough to interfere with your daily activities.
- Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Women with adenomyosis often experience heavy, prolonged periods. This can lead to anemia, fatigue, and a significant impact on quality of life.
- Chronic Pelvic Pain: Beyond just menstrual pain, chronic pelvic pain is a frequent complaint. This pain can persist between periods, creating a constant sense of discomfort.
- Enlarged Uterus: Adenomyosis can cause the uterus to enlarge and become tender, leading to feelings of pressure or bloating in the abdomen.
- Pain During Intercourse: Many women with adenomyosis report discomfort or pain during sexual activity, which can affect intimate relationships and emotional well-being.
- Fertility Issues: In some cases, adenomyosis can lead to difficulties with fertility, making it harder to conceive or maintain a pregnancy.
Causes & Risk Factors
The exact cause of adenomyosis isn’t fully understood, but several factors may contribute to its development:
Hormonal Influence
Estrogen, the hormone that regulates the menstrual cycle, is believed to play a significant role. Higher levels of estrogen can promote the growth of endometrial tissue into the uterine muscle.
Inflammation
Chronic inflammation of the uterine lining, possibly due to childbirth or surgery, might contribute to the condition. This inflammation can cause the endometrial cells to invade the muscle wall.
Previous Uterine Surgery
Women who have undergone uterine surgeries, such as C-sections or fibroid removal, may be at a higher risk. The link between these surgeries and adenomyosis is still being studied, but it’s a consideration for many doctors.
Age and Childbirth
Adenomyosis is more commonly diagnosed in women over 30, particularly those who have had children. As women age, the risk seems to increase, especially as they approach the end of their reproductive years.
Treatment Options For Adenomyosis
Medications
For many women, the first line of treatment involves managing symptoms with medications. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce menstrual cramps and pelvic pain. Hormonal therapies, such as birth control pills or hormonal IUDs, can also help manage heavy bleeding and alleviate pain by controlling the menstrual cycle.
Surgery
When medications aren’t enough, or if symptoms are particularly severe, surgery may be an option.
- Endometrial Ablation: This procedure involves removing the lining of the uterus to reduce heavy bleeding. It’s less invasive than a hysterectomy but may not be a permanent solution for adenomyosis.
- Hysterectomy: In more severe cases, where other treatments have failed, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be recommended. This procedure completely eliminates adenomyosis but is a significant surgery with a longer recovery time.
A Better Solution: Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
UFE is a minimally invasive procedure offered by ECCO Medical. This treatment involves blocking the blood flow to the affected areas of the uterus, which reduces symptoms like heavy bleeding and pelvic pain. UFE is particularly beneficial for women who want to avoid surgery and preserve their uterus. It’s less invasive than a hysterectomy and typically has a much shorter recovery time.
Adenomyosis can have a major impact on a woman’s life, but understanding the condition and the available treatments can make a significant difference. If you’re struggling with symptoms of adenomyosis, it’s important to explore all your treatment options, including Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE).
Why choose ECCO Medical for UFE? Our team, led by board-certified interventional radiologist Dr. Aaron Kovaleski, has extensive experience and expertise in performing UFE, with a focus on patient care and successful outcomes. If you’re struggling with adenomyosis, we’re dedicated to providing the support you need throughout the entire treatment process. To learn more about how UFE can help with adenomyosis, contact us today for a consultation.
