WHAT IS ADENOMYOSIS?

Adenomyosis is a condition in which the inner lining of the uterus (the endometrium) breaks through the muscle wall of the uterus (the myometrium).

It can cause menstrual cramps, lower abdominal pressure, and bloating before menstrual periods and can result in heavy periods. The condition can be located throughout the entire uterus or localized in one spot.

Though it is considered a benign (not life-threatening) condition, the frequent pain and heavy bleeding associated with it can have a negative impact on a woman’s quality of life.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

While some women diagnosed with it have no symptoms, the disease can cause:

• Heavy, prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Severe menstrual cramps
• Abdominal pressure and bloating

CAUSES

The cause of adenomyosis isn’t known. There have been many theories, including:

• Invasive tissue growth. Adenomyosis results from the direct invasion of endometrial cells from the lining of the uterus into the muscle that forms the uterine walls. Uterine incisions made during an operation such as a cesarean section (C-section) might promote the direct invasion of the endometrial cells into the wall of the uterus.
• Developmental origins. Adenomyosis originates within the uterine muscle from endometrial tissue deposited there when the uterus first formed in the fetus.
• Uterine inflammation related to childbirth. Adenomyosis and childbirth. Inflammation of the uterine lining during the postpartum period might cause a break in the normal boundary of cells that line the uterus. Surgical procedures on the uterus can have a similar effect.
• Stem cell origins. Bone marrow stem cells might invade the uterine muscle, causing adenomyosis.

Regardless of how adenomyosis develops, its growth depends on the circulating estrogen in women’s bodies.

WHO GETS ADENOMYOSIS?

It is a common condition. It is most often diagnosed in middle-aged women and women who have had children. Some studies also suggest that women who have had prior uterine surgery may be at risk.

DOES ADENOMYOSIS CAUSE INFERTILITY?

Because many women who have adenomyosis also have endometriosis, it is difficult to tell precisely what role adenomyosis may play in fertility problems. However, adenomyosis may contribute to infertility.