What Is Adenomyosis?
Adenomyosis is a uterine disorder in which the endometrial tissue spreads into the uterine muscles, causing an enlarged uterus, painful menstrual cycles, and discomfort during intercourse. While an estimated 1% of women experience adenomyosis symptoms, the condition might appear in up to 80% of women, according to some studies.
While adenomyosis isn't life-threatening, it can cause severe pain, heavy bleeding, and discomfort, making everyday life difficult. Despite its impact, the condition is often misdiagnosed, as its symptoms overlap with those of uterine fibroids and other pelvic disorders. This mis-identification can delay the relief you need.
At Texas Endovascular, our interventional radiologists specialize in treating adenomyosis with advanced, minimally invasive procedures, such as Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE). If you're looking for an effective treatment option, we can help. Contact us directly or continue reading to learn more.
Symptoms
While some women experience mild or no symptoms, many struggle with painful and disruptive side effects, including the following:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Severe or prolonged cramping
- Blood clotting during menstruation
- Spotting between periods
- Pain during intercourse
- Abdominal bloating
- Discomfort during bowel movements
- Increased risk of miscarriage or pre-term birth
Because these symptoms are often mistaken for uterine fibroids or other pelvic disorders, seeking an accurate diagnosis is essential for proper treatment.
Causes & Risk Factors
The exact cause of adenomyosis is unknown, but medical research suggests it may be linked to several conditions, including the following:
- Developmental anomalies
- Endometriosis
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Localized adenomyoma
- Uterine inflammation
Certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing adenomyosis:
- Being over 35 years old
- Having given birth
- Previous uterine surgery, such as a C-section or myomectomy
Diagnosis (MRI/Ultrasound)
At Texas Endovascular, we utilize advanced imaging technologies like pelvic ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to accurately diagnose adenomyosis, providing detailed insights to guide effective treatment and care.
Adenomyosis vs. fibroids
Distinguishing between adenomyosis and fibroids can be challenging due to overlapping symptoms. Pelvic ultrasound and MRI are valuable diagnostic tools that help us visualize the uterus, providing clarity in identifying the presence of adenomyosis, where the endometrial tissue infiltrates the muscle wall.
Utilizing these imaging techniques not only aids in accurate diagnosis but also guides our treatment approach. By recognizing the differences between adenomyosis and fibroid symptoms, we can ensure that our patients receive the most appropriate care tailored to their specific condition, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes and greater peace of mind.
Treatment Options
Although a hysterectomy is the only cure for adenomyosis, various treatment options can help manage symptoms. These include the following interventions:
- Anti-inflammatory medications – Nonsteroidalanti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can reduce pain and menstrual blood flow when taken before the cycle begins.
- Hormonal therapy – Birth control pills and other hormonal treatments can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce symptoms.
- Linzagolix drug therapy – This medication blocks certain sex hormones, stopping menstruation and alleviating severe adenomyosis symptoms.
- Endometrial ablation – A minimally invasive procedure that destroys the uterine lining. However, success depends on how deeply the adenomyosis tissue has penetrated the uterine wall.
- Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE) – A leading-edge, minimally invasive procedure with an 80% effectiveness rate for symptom relief.
UAE is a non-surgical option that targets adenomyosis by reducing blood flow to the affected areas. This procedure involves the following steps:
- A catheter is inserted into the uterine artery.
- Small particles are injected to block blood flow to the problematic tissue.
- Over time, the deprived tissue shrinks, leading to symptom relief.
Recent advancements in UAE technology include using varied particle sizes, which has increased its effectiveness to 80%. UAE provides a less invasive alternative to hysterectomy and allows patients to recover more quickly.
When to Seek Care
If you or a loved one are struggling with adenomyosis, Texas Endovascular is here to help.
Any unusual symptoms you notice during your regular menstrual cycle should be discussed with a medical specialist. Your symptoms may be caused by uterine fibroids, endometriosis, or polyps, whether or not you have adenomyosis.
When an accurate diagnosis has been established, our team can provide a detailed, personalized analysis of your condition and treatment recommendations in response to your most urgent or problematic symptoms. If you have uncomfortable menstrual symptoms, please contact our helpful representatives at one of our convenient locations to schedule a consultation today.
