April is Adenomyosis Awareness Month. Although adenomyosis is a fairly common condition, it is still largely shrouded in mystery. Let's debunk 5 common myths associated with it in this article.
What is adenomyosis?
Adenomyosis is a condition in which the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows into the muscle tissue of the uterus. These cells behave in the same way as in the uterine cavity during menstruation – they bleed. However, because they are enclosed in the muscle layer, the blood cannot drain freely. This creates small pockets of blood within the muscle tissue , which can cause pressure in the lower abdomen, painful menstruation and other unpleasant symptoms.
Myth #1: Adenomyosis always causes heavy and painful menstruation
Heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or discomfort are common symptoms of adenomyosis, but they do not necessarily occur in all patients. Adenomyosis affects approximately one in ten women , yet many are unaware of it—almost a third have no symptoms . ( 1 ) However, the list of symptoms does not always end with painful menstruation. Many women also experience pressure on the bladder or rectum, pain during intercourse, or chronic fatigue.
Migraine or vulvar pain? Read this article about menstrual symptoms you may not know about.
Myth #2: Adenomyosis is the same as endometriosis
Although adenomyosis and Endometriosis share many similarities, but they are two different conditions. In endometriosis, tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterine cavity and attaches to the outside of the uterus or to other organs, most often in the abdomen. In adenomyosis, uterine cells grow into the muscle wall of the uterus, specifically the smooth muscle between its inner and outer layers.
Although the two diagnoses are different, they are not mutually exclusive . There are studies that suggest that women with adenomyosis may also have endometriosis at the same time. ( 2 )
Myth #3: Adenomyosis necessarily leads to infertility
Adenomyosis leads to chronic inflammation in the uterine tissue, which can affect the structure of the uterine lining and create an inhospitable environment for a fertilized egg. This can reduce the chance of successful embryo implantation and maintaining a pregnancy. In severe cases, adenomyosis can lead to infertility, but this does not mean that it always prevents pregnancy.
Determining the extent to which adenomyosis is the cause of fertility problems can be difficult, as it is often a combination of factors . Statistically, endometriosis is more common in older women, and the quality and number of eggs naturally decline with age. In addition, adenomyosis often occurs together with endometriosis or uterine fibroids, which can also affect fertility. However, many women with adenomyosis can still become pregnant, even without treatment. There are also options to support fertility in women with adenomyosis, including assisted reproduction.
Read a woman's story: I had my eggs frozen
Myth #4: Pregnancy cures adenomyosis
Adenomyosis is highly dependent on estrogen levels, and symptoms may temporarily improve during pregnancy , as hormonal changes during this period can suppress the condition. However, symptoms often return after childbirth. In addition, natural childbirth or uterine surgery, such as cesarean section or fibroid removal, can lead to extensive changes in the uterus, which can worsen symptoms. Therefore, pregnancy may temporarily improve symptoms, but should not be considered the sole or permanent treatment for adenomyosis.
Myth #5: Hysterectomy is the only hope
Treatment options for adenomyosis depend on the severity of symptoms and whether the woman is planning to become pregnant. Hormone therapy is a common treatment that helps regulate the menstrual cycle, slow the growth of the uterine lining, and relieve symptoms. Another option is uterine artery embolization . This procedure reduces blood flow to the affected tissue, which can provide relief from symptoms. In extreme cases , when other treatments have failed and the woman is not planning to become pregnant, hysterectomy , the surgical removal of the uterus, may be considered as a permanent solution to adenomyosis.
Do you suspect adenomyosis?
Adenomyosis and its symptoms can sometimes be almost invisible to those around you, and due to the varied and non-specific symptoms, its diagnosis can be a long shot. But that doesn't mean your symptoms are "just in your head" or that pain should be a natural part of your menstrual cycle.
However, if you suspect adenomyosis (or endometriosis), don't underestimate your problems and don't let it get too far. Monitor your menstrual cycle and record your symptoms, consult your doctor, and don't be discouraged.
Do you have experience with problematic menstruation or have you been diagnosed with adenomyosis, endometriosis or PCOS and would you like to share your story? Write to us at poradna@femvie.com .
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With love
Femvie team
