Adenomyosis what is it and what causes this condition?

Adenomyosis is a uterine condition characterized by the abnormal growth of endometrial tissue within the muscular wall of the uterus. Some factors, such as hormonal imbalances, previous uterine injuries and genetic predisposition can contribute to its development.

In general, one of its symptoms includes severe pelvic pain. Although there is not a permanent cure for adenomyosisa variety of treatment options are available, including the option of removing the uterus, a more permanent option that makes it impossible for women to have children.

Shall we know a little more about this disease? Stay with us!

What is adenomyosis?

Adenomyosis is a condition in which the tissue that normally lines the uterus begins to grow within the muscular wall of the organ. Therefore, this condition can result in symptoms such as intense pelvic pain, heavier and longer periods, and even infertility in some cases.

Although the symptoms are harmless, This condition can be challenging to diagnoseas these symptoms can be similar to those of other uterine conditions, and treatment often involves a combination of pain-relieving approaches and, in some cases, more invasive interventions such as surgery.

What causes adenomyosis?

Some researchers suggest that hormonal factors, such as estrogen, may play an important roleas the condition is generally more common in women in their 40s, when hormone levels incredibly begin to decline.

Furthermore, injuries to the uterus due to previous medical procedures, such as cesarean sections or curettages, can increase the risk of developing adenomyosis. Still, other possible factors include chronic inflammation in the uterus and genetic predisposition.

What are the types of adenomyosis?

For us to begin to understand, it is important to mention that this condition is generally classified into two main types based on the extent and location of endometrial tissue within the uterine wall.

The first type is focal adenomyosis, where there are localized areas of endometrial tissue invading the muscular wall of the uterus. The second type is diffuse adenomyosis, which involves a more widespread distribution of endometrial tissue that infiltrates the entire uterine wall.

That said, These types can vary in severity and symptoms, with diffuse adenomyosis generally associated with more serious symptoms, such as severe pain and heavier periods. Distinguishing between these types is important in determining the most appropriate treatment plan for each patient.

What are the symptoms of adenomyosis?

Among the main symptoms From this condition, we can highlight:

• Abnormal and irregular menstrual bleeding
• Hemorrhage
• Cramps
• Pressure and swelling in the lower abdomen during menstruation

How is adenomyosis diagnosed?

Diagnosing adenomyosis can be challenging due to its nature, and especially because of the symptoms that can stand out compared to other conditions. In general, begins with a detailed clinical assessment, where the doctor takes into account the symptoms that the patient is noticing, such as intense pelvic pain and abnormally heavy periods. Remember that we mentioned this symptom?

Right away, imaging exams are performedsuch as transvaginal ultrasound or resonance, to check possible changes in the uterus, such as increase in size, thickening of the uterine wall and patterns characteristic of adenomyosis.

Finally, in some cases, hysteroscopy, a procedure that allows the doctor to examine the inside of the uterus with a small camera, may be performed to obtain a direct visualization of the uterine tissue and confirm the existence or not of this condition. In addition, a biopsy of the uterine tissue may also be recommended, but this depends on the doctor’s perception of each individual case.

What is the treatment of adenomyosis?

Treatment of adenomyosis may vary depending on the severity of symptoms, the patient’s age, pregnancy plans future and other individual factors. Some treatment options include pain management medications, as well as hormonal therapies such as oral contraceptives or progesterone-releasing intrauterine devices, IUDs, which can help reduce the growth of endometrial tissue and alleviate symptoms.

However, in more serious cases or when symptoms do not respond to the treatment mentioned above, More invasive interventions may be considered. This may include surgical procedures, uterine embolization, or even hysterectomy, the total removal of the uterus, which is a definitive option, but reserved for serious cases or when the patient no longer wishes to have children.

So, what did you think of knowing a little more about this disease? Tell us! Enjoy and read too: How to stop taking contraceptives and what happens to the body?

Sources: Alta Diagnósticos, Drauzio Varella