Possible adenomyosis: symptoms, tests, and treatment

Adenomyosis affects the muscle wall of the uterus. The tissue can respond to the menstrual cycle within that muscle, which may contribute to heavier bleeding, painful periods, pelvic pressure, or ongoing pelvic pain. Some people have few symptoms, while others notice symptoms that interfere with work, sleep, or daily activities.

Possible adenomyosis is not the same as a confirmed diagnosis. A clinician may consider your symptom pattern, pelvic examination, ultrasound, or magnetic resonance imaging. Fibroids, endometriosis, and other causes can produce similar symptoms, so the findings need to be interpreted together.

Track bleeding, pain, cycle timing, and any pressure symptoms before your appointment. Tell your clinician whether you are trying to become pregnant, because that affects the options discussed. Treatment may include pain relief, medicines that reduce bleeding, or a hormonal coil. If symptoms persist, procedures such as endometrial ablation, uterine artery embolisation, or hysterectomy may be considered for selected situations.

Ask what the scan showed and whether blood tests are needed to check for anaemia. Treatment should match your symptoms, reproductive plans, and preference after the benefits and limitations are explained.

Arrange medical review for bleeding that is becoming heavier, pain that is new or worsening, or pelvic symptoms that affect normal activities. Seek urgent care for very heavy bleeding with dizziness or fainting, sudden severe pelvic pain, fever, or possible pregnancy with pain or bleeding.

Ask: What other conditions could explain my symptoms? What did the imaging show? Could I be anaemic? Which treatment fits my pregnancy plans? When should symptoms or bleeding trigger urgent review?