5 June 2018
 Categories: Health & Medical , Blog

Many women are under the mistaken notion that as they near menopause, their menstrual flow will become lighter and the length of their cycle and the interval in between will shorten. Unfortunately, for many women, the opposite is true. Adenomyosis, a condition in many women who are nearing the end of their childbearing years, is quite common; however, most women have never heard of this. Here's what you need to know. 

What Is Adenomyosis?

The lining of the uterus is called the endometrium. The role of these cells is to thicken each month in preparation for a fertilized embryo. When pregnancy does not occur, the cells break down and are shed via your monthly menstrual cycle.

The thick muscular wall that makes up the uterus is called the myometrium. For unknown reasons, the endometrial cells sometimes invade the myometrial cells and grow into the uterine wall. These endometrial cells continue to function as they are coded to do—thicken, break down, and shed. These displaced cells cause the uterus to enlarge, and as a result, extremely heavy and painful periods result.

What Are The Symptoms Of Adenomyosis?

• Prolonged and heavy menstrual bleeding.
• Passing huge blood clots
• Intense menstrual cramps
• Cramping throughout the month, not just when bleeding
• Pain during intercourse
• Pain during bowel movements or urination
• Back and leg pain
• Anemia

How Is Adenomyosis Different Than Endometriosis?

Most women have heard of endometriosis. This is when the endometrial cells escape the confines of the uterus and attach themselves to other organs and structures. With adenomyosis, the endometrial cells stay within the uterus. Endometriosis is more common in younger woman, often beginning within a few years of menarche, the first menstrual cycle. Adenomyosis is more common in older women nearing menopause who have given birth, especially if they have had multiple births. A woman can have both endometriosis and adenomyosis.

The symptoms of endometriosis are similar, but adenomyosis tends to produce far more severe cramping. Many women often liken it to labor pains in strength. These cramps worsen each month as the uterus becomes even more enlarged and tries desperately to expel the foreign cells. The bleeding associated with adenomyosis can be profuse. It is not uncommon for a woman suffering from this condition to begin fearing social situations because of the sudden flooding that can occur. As a result, this can combine with hormonal changes and result in depression as well. 

How Is Adenomyosis Diagnosed?

Adenomyosis cannot be diagnosed with 100 percent certainty unless the uterus is removed. However, a diagnosis can be made with relative certainty by using ultrasound technology.  Your physician will consider your medical history and symptoms as well as the results of your physical pelvic examination, where an enlarged and tender uterus is usually felt. If he suspects adenomyosis, he will schedule a transvaginal ultrasound. 

This means an ultrasound probe will be inserted vaginally, allowing the uterus, fallopian tubes, cervix, vagina, and ovaries to be seen. Unfortunately, this can be slightly uncomfortable due to the tenderness of the enlarged uterus. It can also be messy as it is preferably performed when a woman is actively bleeding. Most women are desperate for relief, however, and are willing to deal with the brief discomfort. 

How Is Adenomyosis Treated?

In years past, physicians routinely recommended a hysterectomy. While this is still a popular treatment option as most women with adenomyosis aren't interested in bearing more children, another option is the placement of an intrauterine device (IUD) with progesterone. This hormone shrinks the endometrial tissue, thereby reducing the symptoms. Once menopause is complete, the symptoms cease, and the IUD can be removed.

For more information, contact a company like EVDI Medical Imaging.