Do I Have Adenomyosis?

Do you have heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding?

Do you have severe cramping or sharp, knifelike pelvic pain during menstruation (dysmenorrhea)?

Do you have periods that occur at intervals of less than 21 days or longer than 35 days?

Do you happen to miss three or more periods in a row?

Do you have periods that last longer than seven days?

Do you have bleeding or spotting that happens between periods, after menopause or following sex?

Do you have a chronic pelvic pain?

Do you have painful intercourse (dyspareunia)?

Did you notice tenderness or pressure in your lower abdomen?

If you are trying to get pregnant, do you have problems conceiving?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have adenomyosis. Adenomyosis is a medical condition characterized by an enlarged uterus and painful, heavy periods. It occurs when the endometrial tissue that lines the uterus grows into the outer muscular walls of the uterus (the myometrium). This extra tissue in the muscular layer of the uterus continues to function normally, which can lead to abnormal bleeding from the uterus. The exact cause of adenomyosis is unknown. It is more common in women between the ages of 35 and 50 who have given birth. In some women, adenomyosis does not cause any symptoms.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have adenomyosis. Adenomyosis is a benign condition in which the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows into the muscular wall of the uterus (myometrium). It can affect the whole uterus or only one part of it. Although harmless, this condition can impair your quality of life. Adenomyosis often causes menstrual cramps, sharp pelvic pain and heavy periods. Diagnosing adenomyosis can be difficult because several other conditions, such as fibroid uterine tumors, endometriosis, and endometrial polyps, have similar symptoms. A diagnosis is based on a pelvic examination, and an ultrasound and MRI scan of the uterus.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have adenomyosis. Adenomyosis is a medical condition characterized by the growth of endometrial tissue (which normally coats the inside of the uterus) into the uterine muscles. Adenomyosis can lead to an enlarged uterus, even two to three times larger than normal, which can cause a feeling of pressure in the abdomen. Adenomyosis often resolves on its own after menopause, so your doctor will consider how far you are from that stage of life when choosing the best treatment option for you. Treatment may include anti-inflammatory drugs, hormone medications and hysterectomy (a surgery to remove the uterus).