How common are heavy periods in adenomyosis?

Adenomyosis occurs when tissue similar to the womb lining grows into the muscle wall of the womb. This can make periods heavier, longer, or more painful. Some people also have pelvic pressure, while others have few noticeable symptoms. Heavy bleeding alone cannot establish the cause, because fibroids, polyps, hormonal changes, and bleeding disorders can also contribute.

Track the days of bleeding, how often you change pads or tampons, clots, pain, and tiredness. Arrange a clinical assessment if heavy periods interfere with daily activities or keep returning. A clinician may review your history, examine you, and consider blood tests or imaging to look for adenomyosis and other causes. Treatment can address bleeding, pain, or both.

Seek urgent medical help if bleeding is so heavy that you feel faint, weak, breathless, confused, or unable to stand safely, or if severe pelvic pain occurs with heavy bleeding. Contact a clinician promptly for bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause.

Could adenomyosis explain my bleeding and pain? Which tests would help distinguish it from fibroids or polyps? What options could reduce blood loss? Should I be checked for iron deficiency?