Adenomyosis
In adenomyosis, endometrial tissue (tissue lining the uterine cavity) is embedded in the muscular wall of the uterus. The tissue in the pathological location reacts to various changes in the same way as in the norm - it thickens, thickens and begins to bleed during each menstrual cycle. An enlarged uterus and painful, prolonged menstruation are the manifestations of this disease
Symptoms most often begin later in pregnancy, some years after giving birth
The cause of adenomyosis is unknown, although the disease disappears after menopause For women who experience severe discomfort from adenomyosis, there are some treatments available, but ultimately the only cure is a hysterectomy.
The cause of adenomyosis is unknown Theoretically, some possible causes are distinguished:
- Invasive tissue growth Some experts believe that adenomyosis is the result of invasion of the muscle wall by endometrial cells The rate of the uterus, for example during cesarean section, contributes to the development of wall invasion
- Congenital causes It is also believed that adenomyosis develops due to the presence of invasive endometrial tissue (inside the muscular wall) that is still present in newborns.
- Inflammation of the uterus related to childbirth According to another theory, adenomyosis is associated with childbirth Inflammation of the uterine wall contributes to the disruption of normal intercellular communication Surgical intervention in the uterus causes adenomyosis by the same mechanism
- Stem cells According to one modern theory, bone marrow stem cells invade the uterine wall and cause adenomyosis.
- Regardless of the reason for the development of adenomyosis, the growth of such tissue depends on the concentration of circulating estrogen in the female body. When estrogen declines due to menopause, adenomyosis disappears on its own
Sometimes, adenomyosis goes unnoticed, without symptoms or with only mild discomfort In other cases, adenomyosis causes:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Severe cramps, sharp pelvic pain during menstruation (dysmenorrhea)
- Menstrual cramps throughout the cycle that worsen with age
- Pain during intercourse You may not realize that your uterus is enlarged, but you may notice lower abdominal swelling or a change in tenderness.
When to see your doctor - If you have prolonged, heavy bleeding or cramping during your cycle that prevents you from normal activities, make an appointment with your doctor
