Women across the globe may be coping with “debilitating pain” from a condition that remains invisible to the naked eye. The problem is often misidentified or “undiagnosed for many years”, according to one doctor, because it can look such a similar issue.
Dr. Asif Ahmed, a British GP, said that this medical concern might be mistaken for endometriosis – a disorder in which tissue just like the uterus lining grows outside the womb, which could lead to incorrect diagnoses.
He said: “This is like endometriosis, but it’s not. It can cause heavy, painful periods and one in 10 women have it.
“This goes undiagnosed for many years but I’m seeing it more and more on ultrasound results and it’s adenomyosis. [With this], the lining of the womb grows in the muscular wall of the womb.”
Adenomyosis differs from endometriosis because it doesn’t spread to other areas of the body. Nevertheless, they are linked by “very similar” symptoms.
Painful, heavy periods are a common symptom. Other signs could manifest at any point within the menstrual cycle, including pelvic pain, abdominal bloating or a sensation of heaviness, and discomfort during intercourse.
The direct cause of adenomyosis is understudied, with causes largely unexplained. However, specialists believe certain elements may contribute to the risk such as having more than one child or being between the ages of 30 and 50 – though it can also appear in younger women too.
A specialist can diagnose this issue using either an MRI or ultrasound machine after raising the issue with your GP. When scheduling your appointment, you do have the right to request a female doctor if it makes you more comfortable.
There are several remedies for period or pelvic pain caused by adenomyosis:
- applying a heat pad or hot water bottle (wrapped in a tea towel) on your abdomen
- utilising a TENS machine – a compact device that employs mild electrical impulses to alleviate pain
- taking painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen
A hysterectomy is the only definitive cure for adenomyosis, but it’s a significant surgical procedure and is typically considered as a last resort. Other treatment options include hormonal therapy and pain medication.