Adenomyosis symptoms and treatment side effects

The condition can present with painful periods, heavy bleeding, pelvic aching or pressure, pain during sex and abdominal fullness. Ongoing heavy blood loss can also contribute to iron-deficiency anaemia, which may cause tiredness, weakness, breathlessness, palpitations or dizziness.

Hormonal treatments can change bleeding patterns and may cause effects such as headaches, breast tenderness, mood changes or acne, depending on the medicine. A hormonal coil can cause cramping around insertion and irregular bleeding at first. Your own product information and medical history determine which cautions apply.

Procedures carry different recovery needs and risks. Uterine artery embolisation can bring temporary pelvic pain, nausea, fatigue or fever during recovery. Endometrial ablation may cause cramping and watery or blood-stained discharge. Hysterectomy involves surgical recovery and ends the ability to carry a pregnancy.

Before treatment, ask which changes are expected, how long they may last and whom to contact after hours. Keep notes on bleeding, pain, temperature and any new symptoms. Check medicine leaflets for instructions specific to the product, and do not stop prescribed hormonal medicine abruptly without discussing a safe plan unless emergency care advises otherwise.

Contact the treating clinic if an effect is persistent, worsening or interfering with eating, sleeping, movement or daily tasks. A blood count and iron assessment may be considered when heavy bleeding is accompanied by fatigue, breathlessness or dizziness.

Seek urgent care for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, chest pain, fainting, sudden severe pelvic or abdominal pain, uncontrolled bleeding, confusion, or a painful swollen leg. After a procedure, urgent assessment is also appropriate for worsening pain with fever, repeated vomiting, foul-smelling discharge, a wound that is opening, or inability to pass urine.

Ask which adverse effects are expected and which are warning signs, whether your other medicines alter the risks, and what follow-up is planned. If a procedure is proposed, clarify pain control, activity restrictions, effects on fertility and the contact route for recovery concerns.