Adenomyosis

Learn more about adenomyosis and how it is treated.

Overview

Adenomyosis is a condition in which the lining of the uterus grows into the muscular walls of the uterus and causes uncomfortable symptoms. 

In a regular menstrual cycle, the endometrial tissue that lines your uterus thickens around the time of ovulation and then sheds during your period.

However, if you have adenomyosis, some endometrial tissue forms pockets within the wall of your uterus. The endometrial tissue will continue to thicken every month and build up within the wall of your uterus.

Our care

Learn more about the specialized care provided at Mount Sinai Hospital for Gynaecology.

This content is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used or relied upon for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. It does not replace the need for consultation with a health-care professional. Please speak with your health-care professional for questions about your health.

Symptoms

The symptoms of adenomyosis vary from person to person. They may include any of the following:

Painful periods
Heavy menstrual bleeding
An enlarged uterus and bloating
Fertility concerns

Diagnosis

If you have symptoms of adenomyosis, a gynaecologist can confirm the diagnosis with medical imaging such as a pelvic or transvaginal ultrasound and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). 

Treatment

The primary treatments for adenomyosis aim to help you manage your symptoms. A hysterectomy may be recommended in some cases. A gynaecologist will work with you to decide on a care plan that is specific to your needs.

Oral pain medication

Pain medication such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) can help relieve pain during your period.

Tranexamic acid

This non-hormonal medication can be taken on days when you have heavy bleeding to reduce your blood loss.

Progestin-only hormone therapy

Birth control medication that uses only progestin (such as IUDs, under-the-skin implants, birth control shots or pills) can help relieve symptoms by making your periods lighter or stopping them altogether.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists

This type of medication relieves symptoms by causing a reversible, medical menopause. It may be used in severe cases of adenomyosis.

GnRH antagonists

This type of medication causes your ovaries to stop producing both estrogen and progesterone which helps relieve symptoms of adenomyosis.

Hysterectomy

If other treatment does not help, surgical removal of the uterus with a hysterectomy will stop adenomyosis. Patients who choose this treatment may keep their ovaries and fallopian tubes.