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Adenomyosis Causes and Risks:
The diagnosis of adenomyosis can only be made after a pathologist examines uterine wall samples. The cause is unknown. The disease usually occurs in women over 30 years old who have borne children, and rarely occurs in women who have not carried a pregnancy to term.
Prevention:
Prevention is unknown.
Symptoms:
Note: In some cases, the woman may not have any symptoms.
Signs and Tests:
Pelvic examination may reveal an enlarged, slightly softened uterus and/or uterine tenderness
- An abdominal X-ray that is taken after ingestion of contrast (a dye-like material that is visible on X-ray ) may be diagnostic.
- An intrauterine wall sample may be necessary for pathological evaluation.
- An abdominal MRI could be useful, but the cost precludes its routine use.
Treatment:
Usually no treatment is initiated, other than recommending or prescribing pain medication ( analgesics ). A hysterectomy may be necessary in women with severe symptoms who are not approaching menopause soon. Most treatment attempts with hormonal supplements have been unsuccessful.
Prognosis:
Symptoms usually resolve after menstruation ceases. A hysterectomy completely resolves symptoms.
Complications:
Oral contraceptives may aggravate symptoms of heavy bleeding and/or pain.
Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms suggestive of adenomyosis occur.
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you are a woman, 30 years or older, who has ever been pregnant and has not received a gynecological checkup (including pelvic examination) in the past 2 to 3 years.
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