Health Online Blog

Endometriosis occurs when the tissue that normally lines the uterus (the endometrium) is found in sites outside the uterus. The misplaced tissue implants itself onto the surface of the tissue or organ where it has been deposited and begins to grow and function.

Symptoms can include:
- Period pain
- Abdominal, back and/or pelvic pain
- Heavy or irregular bleeding
- Bowel or bladder symptoms
- Infertility
- Premenstrual symptoms
- Tiredness
- Mood changes
- Bloating

Adenomyosis is a condition in which tissue that normally lines the uterus (endometrium) also grows within the muscular walls of the uterus. This is most likely to happen late in your childbearing years and after you've had children.

Adenomyosis isn't the same as endometriosis, although women with adenomyosis often also have endometriosis. The cause of adenomyosis remains unknown, but the disease typically disappears after menopause. For women who experience severe discomfort from adenomyosis, there are treatments that can help, but hysterectomy is the only cure.

Although adenomyosis can be quite painful, the condition is generally harmless.

In some women, adenomyosis is "silent" causing no signs or symptoms or only mildly uncomfortable. But other women with adenomyosis may experience:

- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Severe cramping or sharp, knife-like pelvic pain during menstruation (dysmenorrhea)
- Menstrual cramps that last throughout your period and worsen as you get older
- Pain during intercourse
- Bleeding between periods
- Passing blood clots during your period
- Your uterus may increase to double or triple its normal size.

Although you might not know if your uterus is enlarged, you may notice that your lower abdomen seems bigger or feels tender.

I would recommend that you discuss your treatment options with your gynaecologist.

Good luck :)