Adenomyosis is a condition that affects millions of women worldwide, yet remains under-discussed. It occurs when the tissue that normally lines the uterus (called the endometrium) begins to grow into the muscular wall of the uterus (the myometrium). This abnormal growth makes the uterus larger and more sensitive, leading to painful and often distressing symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Adenomyosis
Women living with adenomyosis may experience:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Severe menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea)
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Pain during sex
- A visibly enlarged or tender uterus (sometimes mistaken for weight gain or bloating)
These symptoms often interfere with daily life, making simple activities—like going to work or spending time with loved ones—a real challenge.
Adenomyosis vs. Endometriosis
Many people confuse adenomyosis with endometriosis, but they are different conditions:
- In adenomyosis, the endometrial tissue grows within the uterine muscle.
- In endometriosis, the tissue grows outside the uterus (on ovaries, fallopian tubes, or abdominal lining).
Although different, both conditions are driven by hormonal activity and can cause significant pain and fertility challenges.
What Causes Adenomyosis?
The exact cause is still unknown, but research suggests that hormonal factors—especially estrogen—play a role. The condition is more common in:
- Women in their 30s and 40s
- Women who have given birth
- Those who have had uterine surgeries like C-sections or fibroid removal
How is Adenomyosis Treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and whether a woman still wants to have children. Options include:
- Medication: Pain relievers, hormonal therapies (like birth control pills or hormonal IUDs) to manage bleeding and pain.
- Non-surgical procedures: Uterine artery embolization to shrink affected tissue.
- Surgery: In severe cases, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be recommended. This is the only permanent cure.
Adenomyosis and Fertility
For some women, adenomyosis may make it harder to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term. However, with modern fertility treatments, many women still go on to have healthy pregnancies. Early diagnosis and medical guidance are key.
Why Awareness Matters
Too often, women are told their pain is “normal” or simply part of menstruation. But adenomyosis is not just bad period pain—it is a medical condition that deserves attention, diagnosis, and care.
At Just4WomenAfrica, we believe in amplifying women’s health issues that are often ignored. By breaking the silence around adenomyosis, we can empower women to seek help early and live healthier, fuller lives.
