What should you know about moderate adenomyosis?

Adenomyosis can make the uterus enlarged or tender and may be associated with heavy periods, painful periods or pelvic pain. The word moderate describes the extent seen on imaging or examination; it does not predict exactly how severe your symptoms will feel.

Some people have few symptoms, while others need help with bleeding or pain. The condition is benign, but symptoms can affect daily activities and may contribute to anaemia when bleeding is substantial. Your clinician may consider ultrasound or other imaging alongside your history.

Keep a record of bleeding, pain, cycle timing and tiredness, and ask whether blood tests are appropriate if periods are heavy. Treatment depends on symptoms, age, medical history and whether you want pregnancy. Options may include pain relief, hormonal treatment such as a Hormonal Coil, or procedures such as Endometrial Ablation, Uterine Artery Embolisation or Hysterectomy.

These choices have different effects on fertility and future bleeding, so discuss them before deciding. Read more about Adenomyosis, Heavy Periods, Painful Periods and Pelvic Pain.

Arrange medical review for bleeding that is becoming heavier, pain that limits normal activities, bleeding between periods or persistent pelvic pressure. Seek urgent help for soaking pads rapidly, faintness, severe sudden pain, fever or feeling acutely unwell.

Ask how moderate disease was assessed, whether you need an anaemia check, which option fits your pregnancy plans, and what benefit and drawbacks to expect from each treatment. Ask when symptoms should be reassessed if the first approach is not enough.