What causes adenomyosis?

This tissue responds to hormonal changes and can contribute to inflammation, enlargement of the uterus, painful contractions, and heavier bleeding. There is no single behaviour, food, exercise, or personal choice known to cause it.

Several biological explanations are possible. Cells from the uterine lining may move into the nearby muscle, or misplaced cells may develop there earlier in life and become active under hormonal influence. Changes at the boundary between the lining and muscle may also contribute.

Previous childbirth or uterine surgery may be part of the history for some people, but neither is required. Having such a history does not prove what caused an individual case, and adenomyosis can occur without either factor.

Rather than trying to identify something you did wrong, focus on documenting the symptoms that can be treated. Note the timing and heaviness of bleeding, where pain occurs, whether sex is painful, and how symptoms affect daily activities.

A clinician may assess you for anaemia and other causes of bleeding or pelvic pain, then discuss symptom relief. The choice can include pain medicines, hormonal treatment, or a procedure, shaped by your health and pregnancy plans.

Seek urgent assessment for heavy bleeding together with faintness, breathlessness, chest discomfort, confusion, or severe weakness. Sudden severe abdominal or pelvic pain, fever, persistent vomiting, or pain during a possible pregnancy needs timely evaluation for causes beyond adenomyosis.

You might ask what supports the diagnosis, whether fibroids or endometriosis could also explain your symptoms, and whether blood tests or imaging are needed. Ask which option targets your most disruptive symptom and how it fits with contraception or future pregnancy.