Adenomyosis Of The Uterus Warning Signs: What To Look Out For

Overview

A condition when the inner lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows into the muscle wall of the uterus. This results in painful and heavy menstrual bleeding.

Symptoms

If you’re experiencing new, severe, or persistent symptoms, contact a health care provider.

The most common symptoms include:

• Chronic pelvic pain
• Heavy menstrual bleeding for a prolonged period
• Dysmenorrhea severe cramps and pain during menstruation
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Uterine enlargement
• Spotting between periods

Causes

The exact cause of adenomyosis is unknown. Some of the possible causes include:

• Endometriosis: The endometrium (the lining of the uterus) grows into the myometrium (the muscular wall of the uterus)
• Trauma that causes inflammation, e.g. childbirth
• Stem cells invading the myometrium
• Developmental anomalies from the time the uterus was first formed in the fetus

The risk factors include:

• Previous uterus surgery such as a caesarean
• Fibroids removal (myomectomy)
• Complications of dilatation and curettage (D&C)
• Age usually among middle age women

Treatments

COMMONLY RECOMMENDED

IN SEVERE CASES

Treatment includes medications such as pain relievers and hormone modulators such as levonorgestrel releasing intrauterine devices, oral contraceptives and progestins. Medical procedures or surgery may be necessary for severe cases.

MEDICATION

Anti-inflammatory drugs

To control pain.

Common drugs : Ibuprofen

Progestin

Oral contraceptives can temporarily induce regression of adenomyosis.

Common drugs : Norethisterone acetate

SURGERY

Uterine artery embolism

To reduce blood supply to the specific part of the uterus.

Myometrial reduction

Removal of diseased tissue from the uterus.

Complications

If untreated for a prolonged period, it may lead to:

• Infertility
• Pre-term births
• Anemia due to increased blood loss

Prevention

• Consult a medical professional in case of any signs resembling those of adenomyosis
• Exercise regularly
• Take Vitamin D supplements for calcium balance

Questions To Ask Your Doctor

• Is adenomyosis of uterus life-threatening?
• Is it cancerous?
• Can it cause miscarriage?
• Is it treatable?
• What is the treatment duration?

Nutrition

FOODS TO EAT

FOODS TO AVOID

Foods to eat:

Cereals and green leafy vegetables for iron and calcium

Legumes like peas, lentils and beans

Vitamin D – such as Fish

Foods to avoid:

Red and processed meat

Source: Adenomyosis Of The Uterus Warning Signs: What To Look Out For (msn.com)