Adenomyosis: definition and meaning
Adenomyosis is a condition in which tissue like the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows into the uterus's muscular wall (myometrium). That tissue still responds to monthly hormones, so the uterus can become enlarged and tender, and periods are often heavy and painful. It is most often found in people in their 40s and 50s.
How it works in your cycle
Each cycle, estrogen thickens the endometrium and it sheds as your period. With adenomyosis, some of that tissue sits inside the muscle layer. It thickens and bleeds there too, which can swell the uterine wall and make the muscle cramp harder.
- Heavy menstrual bleeding, sometimes with clots
- Painful periods that may worsen over the years
- A dull ache or pressure in the pelvis, sometimes between periods
- Pain during sex
- No symptoms at all: about a third of people with adenomyosis never notice it
Adenomyosis vs endometriosis
The names sound alike. In adenomyosis the tissue grows into the uterine wall. In endometriosis similar tissue grows outside the uterus, for example on the ovaries. You can have both. Read the full guide: adenomyosis explained.
Heavy, painful periods also wear on mood and energy. Many people notice they feel low or drained on their worst days, and long-term heavy bleeding can lead to iron deficiency, which adds tiredness of its own.
See a doctor if your periods are getting heavier or more painful, if you soak a pad or tampon every hour or two, pass large clots, or feel dizzy and tired. Adenomyosis is usually confirmed with an ultrasound or MRI, and treatments range from pain relief and hormonal options to surgery.
Frequently asked questions
Is adenomyosis serious?
It isn't cancer and isn't life-threatening, but it can seriously affect quality of life through pain and heavy bleeding. Effective treatments exist, so it's worth getting checked.
Does adenomyosis go away?
Symptoms usually ease after menopause, when estrogen falls. Before then, hormonal treatments can calm symptoms, and a hysterectomy is the only permanent cure.
Sources
This page is for information only and isn鈥檛 medical advice. If something worries you, please talk to a doctor.
Keep reading
Adenomyosis: symptoms, diagnosis and what helpsAdenomyosis explained: heavy, painful periods and a tender, bulky uterus. Who it affects, how it differs from endometriosis, diagnosis and treatment.Endometriosis: definition and meaningEndometriosis is when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. A clear definition, common symptoms, and when to see a doctor.
Heavy menstrual bleeding: definition and meaningHeavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) is period bleeding that disrupts daily life. Signs your flow is heavy, common causes, and when to see a doctor.Dysmenorrhea: definition and meaningDysmenorrhea is the medical term for painful periods. The difference between primary and secondary dysmenorrhea, what helps, and when to see a doctor.
Heavy periods: what counts as heavy and what helpsHow to tell if you have heavy periods: soaking a pad every hour or two, clots, bleeding over 7 days. Causes, treatments that work, and when to get help.