What should you know about types of adenomyosis?

Focal adenomyosis affects a defined area of the womb muscle and may form a thickened or mass-like region. Diffuse adenomyosis is spread through a larger part of the muscle and may make the womb enlarged or tender. Some descriptions also refer to adenomyosis near the inner muscle layer or to cysts within the muscle. These labels describe location and appearance; they do not by themselves show how severe symptoms will be.

Adenomyosis can present with Heavy Periods, Painful Periods, or Pelvic Pain. Some people have few symptoms. Assessment may combine your history, examination, and imaging such as ultrasound or MRI.

Discuss the effect on bleeding, pain, sleep, work, and plans for pregnancy. Options may include pain relief, medicines that reduce bleeding, or hormonal treatment. A Hormonal Coil can be considered for some people. Endometrial Ablation, Uterine Artery Embolisation, or Hysterectomy may be discussed when symptoms persist, but suitability depends on your womb, health, and fertility plans.

Arrange medical review for bleeding that is unusually heavy, pain that disrupts normal activities, bleeding between periods, or symptoms of anaemia such as breathlessness, paleness, or pronounced tiredness. Seek urgent help for severe sudden pelvic pain, fainting, or bleeding that makes you feel weak or unwell.

Ask which pattern your imaging suggests, whether another cause of bleeding needs checking, and how treatment could affect fertility. Discuss non-surgical options, expected follow-up, and what symptoms should trigger an earlier appointment.