Adenomyosis or adenomyometritis is a condition developing in women when the endometrial tissues grow into the uterus. Endometrial tissue lines the uterus. The displaced cells do not act abnormally. So, it thickens, breaks down, and bleeds like the normal tissue during each menstrual cycle. But, due to the condition, women develop an enlarged uterus. It also causes heavy and painful periods. The exact reason why women develop this condition remains unknown. In normal cases, adenomyometritis affects women in their forties or fifties. So, it resolves after menopause. For severe cases of the condition triggering extreme distress, hormonal treatments are suggested. Hysterectomy or removal of the uterus is the only known cure for the condition.

Symptoms Associated With Adenomyosis

When adenomyometritis develops in women, some may see no signs with only mild discomfort during their monthly cycle. So, they may not become aware of the condition. But, in others, the condition can trigger the following:

Heavy periods
Prolonged menstrual bleeding
Severe cramping
Chronic pelvic pain
Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
Dyspareunia (Painful intercourse)

The condition can make the uterus bigger. Women may not know they have an enlarged uterus, but they might notice pressure or tenderness in the lower abdomen.

See A Doctor For Adenomyosis

In people with mild adenomyometritis, the condition may not affect their life. But, women who suffer severe symptoms like heavy bleeding or cramping during their menstrual cycle need to see a doctor. When the signs and symptoms interfere with the regular activities, then make an appointment with the doctor. The doctor can assess the condition and offer treatments to manage the symptoms.

Causes Of Adenomyosis

Why women develop adenomyosis remains unknown. But, several theories are suggested by the doctors. The main causes associated with adenomyometritis are:

Invasive Tissue Growth

Experts studying the condition believe the cells from the lining of the uterus (endometrial cells) invade the uterine wall. It usually affects the muscles forming the uterine walls. It occurs due to uterine incisions made during operations like C-section (cesarean section). Invasive surgery can increase the risk of direct invasion of the endometrial cells into the uterine wall.

Developmental Origins

Some experts believe the condition occurs when the fetus first develops. The depositing of endometrial tissue in the uterine muscles during the fetus formation results in the problem.

Complications During Childbirth

When a woman suffers uterine inflammation during childbirth, it can result in adenomyometritis. Certain experts believe there is a link between adenomyometritis and childbirth. During the postpartum period, uterine inflammation can occur. This inflammation causes a break in the normal boundary of cells lining the uterus.

Stem Cell Origins

Recent studies indicate another theory proposing bone marrow stem cells invading the uterine muscles causing adenomyometritis.

Irrespective of how the condition develops, the doctor suggests the growth depends on estrogen circulation in womenâ€™s bodies.

Risk Factors Associated With Adenomyosis

While adenomyometritis is a common condition, it is usually diagnosed in women who are in their middle age or women who have had kids. But, some factors put women at risk of developing adenomyometritis compared to others like:

Prior Uterine Surgery

If a woman has undergone prior uterine surgery, then they can suffer from the risk of developing the condition. So, women who have undergone fibroid removal, D&C (dilatation and curettage), or C-section can experience the condition.

Childbirth

When women suffer from poor pregnancy outcomes, then the risk of adenomyometritis increases. So, women with preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM), preterm delivery, and fetal growth restriction (FGR) can result in the condition.

Middle Age

In most of the cases, estrogen levels in the body results in the condition. So, women in their middle age (around their 40s and 50s) can suffer from the condition. Middle age means longer exposure to estrogen compared to young women.

Women in their middle age are exposed to estrogen for a longer period. It makes them vulnerable to the condition. But, recent studies indicate younger women can also develop the condition. So, it is prevalent in both younger and older women. Several studies indicate the involvement of various hormones like FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), prolactin, and progesterone other than estrogen in developing the condition. So, the condition can develop in younger women too.

Difference Between Endometriosis And Adenomyosis

While the problems may seem similar, adenomyosis is not the same as endometriosis. While both are endometrial tissue disorders. So, these problems affect the tissue lining the cavity of your uterus. The similarity ends there. It is because both the problem develops differently. The disorders also have different symptoms. In adenomyometritis, the endometrial cell growth occurs within the uterus wall. But, these misplaced cells follow the normal menstrual cycle. Due to the condition, your uterus all thickens. So, you suffer from heavy bleeding and pain. The condition can affect fertility in younger women. It is common among older women.

When a woman suffers from endometriosis, the endometrial cell growth occurs outside the uterus. So, you can find the tissue in the cavities of the pelvis, the supporting ligaments of the uterus, and on the ovaries. They also follow the monthly menstrual cycle. Endometriosis also causes pain and affects fertility. The condition normally affects women in adolescent age or childbearing age. Women who develop adenomyometritis can also develop endometriosis or already have a problem.

Complications Associated With Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis can cause heavy bleeding as well as pelvic pain. When you have prolonged and heavy bleeding, you face the following complications:

Disruption Of Normal Lifestyle

While moderate bleeding causes any harm, the pain associated with the condition can disrupt the normal lifestyle. You start avoiding the activities you enjoyed in the past like playing or sexual intercourse. It is because the pain makes it impossible to enjoy these activities or the worry of bleeding.

Anemia

Excessive bleeding can result in a condition known as anemia. It is caused due to the loss of blood, which results in iron deficiency. Without enough iron, your body fails to make enough red blood cells. These red blood cells are necessary for carrying the oxygen to the tissues in the body. So, anemia can cause the following symptoms:

Moodiness
Dizziness
Fatigue

Without proper medical intervention, the condition can result in other problems like irritability, depression, and anxiety.

Diagnosis Of Adenomyosis

Since the condition can trigger symptoms similar to other uterine conditions, your doctor can suggest elaborate tests to diagnose the condition conclusively. The other conditions mimicking adenomyosis are:

Endometriosis (the uterine cells tends to grow outside the uterus)
Leiomyomas (Fibroid tumors)
Endometrial polyps (growths inside the uterine lining)

So, the doctor has to rule out the above-mentioned conditions to suggest a proper treatment plan. Here are the following tests to detect the problem conclusively:

Physical Assessment

The doctor performs a physical assessment to detect the signs and symptoms associated with the condition.

A Pelvic Exam

Pelvic examination is the physical examination to detect any abnormalities with the reproductive organ. But, in most cases, a regular pelvic exam may not help uncover adenomyometritis. During the examination, the doctor will find a slightly softened or enlarged uterus. The exam also reveals the presence of uterine mass.

Ultrasound Images

Sound waves are used to produce images of internal organs like the uterus. This test is suggested by the doctor to distinguish masses caused by adenomyometritis from the other form of tumors developing in the uterus.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

MRI or magnetic resonance imaging is a more accurate tool used to diagnose the problem. MRI can also detect associated conditions. You can develop either focal adenomyometritis or diffuse adenomyometritis. It is established using the imaging technique when the junctional thickening exceeds twelve millimeters.

Endometrial Biopsy

In some cases, the doctor suggests endometrial biopsy. So, the doctor collects a uterine tissue sample for testing. It helps detect any serious conditions. But, this test may not confirm the adenomyometritis diagnosis.

Imaging techniques like ultrasound and MRI are used commonly by the doctors to detect the symptoms associated with adenomyometritis. But, a conclusive detection of the problem is only possible after hysterectomy. Only after examining the removed uterus, the doctor can confirm the problem. Otherwise, a combination of diagnostic methods is used to detect the problem.

Treatment For Adenomyosis

In women, adenomyometritis goes away as they reach their menopause. So, depending on the age of the affected women, the doctor suggests treatment. If you are close to the menopause stage, then simple treatments are suggested. The treatment options include the following:

Take Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

Taking anti-inflammatory drugs before the menstrual cycle will offer relief from the excruciating pain. So, you can take ibuprofen to control pain. You need to start taking the medication at least a day or two before the periods and continue taking it during your period. It offers relief from pain and reduces blood flow. Talk to your doctor about the dose and always stick to the doctorâ€™s advice.

Hormone Medications For Adenomyosis

For menstrual problems like adenomyometritis, your doctor suggests taking hormone pills. The combination of estrogen and progestin birth control pills or patches containing hormones is suggested. Vaginal rings are also available to reduce the heavy bleeding as well as the pain associated with the condition. If you are not in your childbearing age, then progestin-only contraception can offer relief. It is because it results in the absence of your menstrual periods (amenorrhea). So, women can continue using birth control pills or use an intrauterine device.

Hysterectomy

If your pain is severe and no other conservative treatments offer relief, then your doctor suggests removing the uterus. It is only suggested for women who are not planning for any more kids. The surgery removes only the uterus and not the ovaries. Hysterectomy can control the pain.

Home Remedies To Manage Adenomyosis

While seeing a doctor is advisable, you can take some steps at home to ease the pelvic pain as well as cramping associated with the conditions. Here are some of the effective steps to overcome the problem:

Place Heating Pads

Heat can effectively relax your pelvic muscles. So, placing a heat compress will improve the blood flow to the pelvic region and ease the pain as well as cramping. With improved blood circulation, you will feel relief from the building pressure in your uterus that triggers pain in the uterus. You need to place a heating pad for at least five minutes on the lower abdomen. You need to repeat the action for at least two to three times a day or whenever you feel cramps. If you have no heating pads available, then you can also try placing a hot water bottle below the abdominal region for easing the discomfort. Soaking in a warm bath can also offer you relief.

Pelvic Massage

Pelvic muscle massage helps relax them and offer pain relief. Using aromatic oil can reduce the inflammation and reduce cramping associated with the condition. So, take a few drops of high-quality aromatic oil like lavender and gently massage the abdomen. It stimulates the blood flow and relaxes the pelvic muscles. You can gently massage the affected area for at least ten to fifteen minutes at a time to get relief from adenomyosis.

Castor Oil

Castor oil has powerful anti-inflammatory agent referred to as ricinoleic acid. So, using castor oil directly on your abdomen will reduce pain as well as swelling occurring in the uterus. You can place a pack of castor oil or massage it directly into the abdomen to get effective results. Mixing it with a few drops of essential oil (like lavender) will help you relax. So, it offers relief from any distress caused due to the condition. For more effective results, place a warm compress after massaging with castor oil.

Shepherdâ€™s Purse

Shepherdâ€™s purse is a plant belonging to the mustard family that causes uterine contractions. It is effective in improving blood circulation. So, it alleviates any signs of inflammation. The herbal remedy is effective in healing the symptoms associated with adenomyosis. It also aids in managing heavy and irregular periods as it can constrict blood vessels, reducing the blood flow during your menstrual cycle.

Ginger Tea

Ginger has strong anti-inflammatory properties. So, it aids in offering relief from inflammation as well as pain associated with adenomyometritis. You can make ginger tea by boiling a cup of water in the saucepan. Add a teaspoon of ginger to the boiling water and simmer. Strain the liquid and add honey to it after cooling. You need to drink the mixture immediately.

Turmeric Milk

Turmeric contains curcumin. It contains anti-inflammatory as well as healing properties. So, turmeric can help deal with pain as well as swelling associated with adenomyometritis. You need a glass of hot milk and turmeric powder. Add one teaspoon into the milk and milk. Drink the mixture to get relief from the distress caused due to the condition.

Take Over-The-Counter Anti-Inflammatory Medication

If other methods fail to offer you relief, then you can take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pills. Medications like ibuprofen can help ease the distress caused by the condition.

Adenomyosis Diet

Your diet plays an important role in maintaining overall health. Several conditions like PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), endometriosis, and a host of other symptoms are easily managed by tweaking your diet. You can diet them into remission by opting for healthier food options. Cutting out the foods causing hormone imbalance will help you manage conditions like adenomyosis. It is also important to refrain from including any food triggering an inflammatory response. Such foods cause problems with cortisol production, screws with the blood sugar levels, and increases the estrogen production in the body. Most hormone-related conditions feed off from an imbalanced body. So, checking your diet will help you take control of your body and monthly cycle.

Foods You Need To Avoid With Adenomyosis

Certain foods tend to aggravate the symptoms associated with adenomyometritis further. These food items often put extra pressure on your pelvic region. So, you feel severe pain due to the condition. With this point in mind, you need to choose the diet that may not contain the following:

Yeast based products like alcohol
Cowâ€™s milk
Wheat
Artificial sugars
Gluten
Bananas
Coffee
Tea
Eliminate Estrogen

While estrogen is present in both men and women irrespective of their ages, it is usually found in higher levels in women of childbearing ages. But, estrogen in high amounts can trigger several issues, including adenomyometritis. Therefore, you need to avoid eating estrogen-rich foods like:

Flaxseeds
Soybeans
Dried fruits
Sesame seeds
Peaches
Berries
Wheat barn
Tofu

Safe Foods To Consume To Prevent Adenomyosis

You need to include safe foods in your diets to reduce the swelling around the uterus. Here are some of the food groups you need to include in the diet. A well-balanced diet will help you manage the condition better:

Fruits

You can include a wide range of fruits in your diet. Try to consume raw fruits to get the maximum benefits. You can include the following:

Apples
Fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, and cranberries)
Apricots
Grapefruit
Apricots
Grapes
Strawberries
Dates
Kiwi
Figs
Oranges
Papaya
Limes
Pineapple
Lemons
Coconut
Melon
Plums
Pears
Peaches

Vegetables To Manage Adenomyosis

Fresh vegetables offer your body a lot of nutrients. So, to manage the condition, you need to include the following vegetable raw or cooked in your diet:

Asparagus
Artichokes
Celery
Beetroot
Cauliflower
Carrots
Cress
Broccoli
Cabbages (all types like green and red)
Calabrese
Kale
Avocados
Sprouts
Spinach
Leeks
Olives
Chicory
Mushrooms
Peppers (only cooked green, yellow, and red)
Onions
Radishes
Pumpkin
Potatoes
Swede
Turnips
Sauerkraut

Pulses, Beans, Nuts, And Grains

Add grains, pulses, and nuts in your diet. Here are some of the options you can consider while deciding on a diet:

Barley
Brown rice
Spelt
Oatmeal
Millet
Seeds (Sesame and pumpkin)
Nuts (Cashew, almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts)
Beans (all varieties including broad, pinto, and kidney)
Couscous
Quinoa
Lentils

Herbs To Manage Adenomyosis

You need to lower the salt intake as it can affect your blood pressure. So, you need to use salt in moderations. Instead, you can use herbs to make your dishes flavorful. Here are some of the herbs you can use in your cuisines:

Caraway
Basil
Dill
Cinnamon
Fenugreek
Ginger
Garlic
Parsley
Rosemary
Peppermint,
Thyme
Sage

Â Organic Meat

While meat can make the condition worse, you can opt for organic meat in a very small diet to overcome the problem. But, you need to make sure the meat you add in the diet is 100% organic with a traceable source. It guarantees no hormones are used to feed or treat the animal. Such hormones can affect your hormonal balance.

Fish

As suggested above, you can include only fresh fish in your diet. If possible opt for tin fish from a nearby source.

Fruit Teas

Instead of opting for caffeinated drinks. You can use fruit teas. But, avoid red raspberry/raspberry tea or Chasteberry (Vitex Agnus-Castus) tea as it can affect your pituitary glands. Due to interaction with pituitary glands, your symptoms tend to aggravate further.

Prevention Tips To Avoid Adenomyosis

In addition to including a well-balanced diet, you can also some other preventive tips to successfully manage adenomyosis symptoms. With a unique as well as specific food plan and certain preventive steps, you can improve the quality of life. The tips are:

Practice Yoga

Yoga is effective in providing relief from stress and anxiety. Several hatha yoga poses can also relax the tension in your pelvis and abdomen region. These poses increase blood circulation to the pelvic region and offer relief from pain. Yoga has a mindful and restful dimension, which helps with the healing process. If you are wondering the different yoga poses effectively in healing, the try asanas like:

The cobra pose (Bhujangasana)
Downward dog pose (Adho Mukha asana)
Toe stretching forward bend (Utthita Anguli Sukhasana)
Shoulder supported bridge (Sethu bandha Sarvangasana)
Reclined Goddess pose (Supta Baddha Konasana)

Exercise Regularly

Exercising regularly keeps you healthy and boosts your immune system. Include exercise in your routine to improve the blood flow to the reproductive organs and ease the pain caused due to the condition.

Avoid Processed Foods

You need to avoid a diet high in trans-fat. It can worsen your condition and cause severe pain. So, avoid food items containing trans-fat like fast foods, fried, or processed foods. According to a study, people who choose a diet high trans-fat suffer from adenomyometritis. Instead, you need to opt for a plant-based diet that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps fight off any diseases.

Avoid Caffeine

Caffeinated drinks are acidic. So, it irritates the lining of your stomach. So, it triggers ulcers, or cause pain. It also aggravated existing stomach issues. Caffeinated drinks are also laxatives. So, women who experience adenomyometritis can see a worsening of the symptoms. Therefore, avoid caffeinated drinks like coffee.

Good Hydration

Good hydration is necessary to avoid constipation that can put pressure on the uterus and aggravate the symptoms associated with adeomyometritis. So, drink at least six to eight glasses of water to eliminate old hormones and toxins from the body. Good hydration supports a healthy detoxification system and supports the excretion of estrogen.

Never Skip Breakfast

You get 40% of the energy needed to perform your daily function from the breakfast. When you skip breakfast, it increases your chances of developing constipation and other gynecological problems.

Conclusion

While adenomyosis is not a life-threatening condition. But, you need immediate medical intervention to alleviate the symptoms. Without any treatment, the condition worsens and you suffer from severe distress. Hysterectomy is the only permanent cure for the condition. Removing the uterus can only eliminate the condition. Older women can take action to manage the problem until they reach menopause. It goes away once you reach menopause. Otherwise, you need to take the necessary steps to manage the problem.

References

https://www.webmd.com/women/guide/adenomyosis-symptoms-causes-treatments#1

https://www.healthline.com/health/adenomyosis

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adenomyosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20369138