Adenomyosis: The Hidden Cause of Heavy, Painful Periods
Introduction
Have your periods become so heavy and painful that they control your life every month? Do you feel like your uterus is literally weighing you down? You may be dealing with adenomyosis, a lesser-known but equally impactful condition that’s often confused with fibroids or endometriosis.
What Is Adenomyosis?
Adenomyosis occurs when the endometrial tissue that normally lines the uterus starts to grow into the muscular wall of the uterus (the myometrium). This abnormal growth causes the uterus to become thickened, inflamed, and often enlarged leading to heavy periods and intense menstrual cramps.
It’s sometimes called the “sister condition” of endometriosis because the symptoms can be similar, and the two can even coexist. But the main difference? Adenomyosis stays within the uterus.
Common Symptoms of Adenomyosis
While symptoms vary, many people with adenomyosis report:
Heavy menstrual bleeding (soaking through pads/tampons quickly)
Severe period cramps that worsen over time
Chronic pelvic pressure or aching
Pain with intercourse
An enlarged, tender uterus (sometimes described as feeling like a "balloon")
Fatigue or anemia due to blood loss
It can be especially frustrating because many providers chalk it up to “normal period changes, “especially as women approach their 30s or 40s.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Unlike endometriosis, adenomyosis can sometimes be seen on imaging, such as:
Transvaginal ultrasound
MRI
However, some cases are only confirmed after a hysterectomy, when the uterus is removed and examined. That’s why diagnosis is often delayed or missed.
What Causes It?
The exact cause is unclear, but contributing factors may include:
Hormonal imbalances (especially excess estrogen)
Uterine trauma (from childbirth, C-sections, or uterine surgery)
Age (most common in women 35-50, but can occur earlier)
How Is It Treated?
Treatment depends on your symptoms and fertility goals:
Hormonal birth control (pills, IUDs, or shots) to reduce bleeding and pain
NSAIDs for pain relief
Uterine artery embolization (UAE) - a procedure that cuts off blood flow to the affected area
Endometrial ablation -destroys the lining of the uterus (not ideal if you want future pregnancies)
Hysterectomy -considered curative, but only recommended in specific cases
Living With Adenomyosis
Adenomyosis can take a toll physically and emotionally. If your periods are interfering with your quality of life, don’t ignore it. You deserve more than “just deal with it.” You deserve real solutions.
You deserve to lead your care.
At Blush Women’s Health Consulting, we help you understand your options, speak confidently to your doctor, and feel empowered, not ashamed, of what your body is experiencing.
