Adenomyosis
“Adenomyosis is a condition where the lining of the womb (uterus) starts growing into the muscle in the wall of the womb.”
Living with painful, heavy periods can sometimes feel isolating, yet adenomyosis is far from rare. Adenomyosis is actually more common than many people realise. Research and UK patient organisations suggest it may affect around one in ten women, making it roughly the same prevalence as endometriosis. The frustrating part? Adenomyosis often goes undiagnosed for years, which is why awareness matters so much.
What is Adenomyosis
Adenomyosis occurs when cells that normally line the womb burrow into the muscular wall (myometrium) of the uterus. As the tissue thickens, breaks down and bleeds each cycle, the uterus can enlarge to twice or even three times its usual size, that can lead to pain and unusually heavy bleeding.
Who is most at risk?
- Women older than 40
- Those with previous uterine surgery (for example, fibroid removal or dilation and curettage)
- Those already diagnosed with endometriosis or fibroids
While the exact cause is unknown, hormonal factors (notably oestrogen), genetics and inflammation are all thought to play a part.
Early diagnosis can be tricky because pelvic examination, ultrasound or MRI scans may only show subtle uterine thickening. In some cases, the condition is not confirmed until after a hysterectomy when tissue can be examined under a microscope.
Adenomyosis symptoms
Here’s the tricky part: about one in three people with adenomyosis won’t notice any symptoms at all. But when symptoms do occur, the most common include:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Severe period cramps or constant pelvic pain
- Bloating or a feeling of pelvic heaviness (sometimes called “adenomyosis belly”)
- Pain during sex (dyspareunia)
These symptoms can overlap with endometriosis,( endometriosis is where cells similar to those in the lining of the womb (uterus) grow in other parts of the body), fibroids and pelvic inflammatory disease, so a professional assessment is essential.
Adenomyosis stages
Unlike endometriosis, adenomyosis doesn’t have an official staging system. Instead, doctors describe it based on how the tissue spreads and how deep it goes:
- Focal adenomyoma – one or more localised lumps within the uterine wall that may cause targeted pain or pressure.
- Diffuse adenomyosis – widespread tissue growth throughout the muscle, usually making the uterus enlarge overall.
- Mild, moderate or severe – a more practical way of describing how far the tissue has invaded.
Because it’s progressive, specialists sometimes talk about adenomyosis as early, mid or advanced. That helps explain how symptoms can intensify over time and how much impact they can have on everyday life.
Adenomyosis treatment
Treatment for adenomyosis can vary depending on your symptoms, age, and whether you're hoping to have children in the future. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment, a personalised plan can significantly reduce symptoms:
Your doctor may suggest forms of hormonal contraception, or surgery such as:
- Adenomyomectomy a targeted procedure which preserves the uterus and may be considered when future pregnancy is planned.
- Hysterectomy a permanent option that removes the uterus and ends periods; If your pain is severe and no other treatments have worked, your doctor might suggest surgery.
While adenomyosis can feel overwhelming, it’s important to know that you don’t have to live with debilitating symptoms. With the right treatment, symptoms can be eased, periods can become lighter, and you can get back to feeling more like yourself.
If you’ve noticed changes in your cycle, or you’re experiencing pain or heavy bleeding that’s starting to affect your day-to-day life, speak to a doctor. With improved awareness more people are getting answers and the support they need.
Evana contains tranexamic acid, which can help with heavy periods. Evana is not indicated for adenomyosis and can only be used if consumers don’t suffer from an underlying condition that is causing heavy periods. To find out more about how to take Evana please read here: Evana - About Evana® and speak to a healthcare professional.
Ultravana is licensed for menstrual pain. Ultravana is not indicated for adenomyosis and can only be used if consumers don’t suffer from an underlying condition that is causing painful periods. It’s important to discuss suitability with a pharmacist to make sure Ultravana is the right choice for you.
Evana® Heavy Period Relief 500 mg tablets. Tranexamic acid. Ultravana® Period Pain Relief 250 mg Gastro-resistant tablets. Naproxen. Always read the label.
