Adenomyosis

What is Adenomyosis? – A Comprehensive Guide

What is Adenomyosis?

Adenomyosis is a benign condition that occurs when the endometrial tissue, which forms the inner lining of the uterus, grows into the muscular wall of the uterus (myometrium). It is particularly common in women aged 30-50.

How Does It Occur?

It develops as a result of the invasion of endometrial tissue into the myometrium. Hormonal factors and changes in uterine structure after childbirth may play a role.

What Are the Symptoms?

Severe menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea), heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding, chronic pelvic pain, and sometimes pain during sexual intercourse are the most common symptoms.

Adenomyosis and Endometriosis

Adenomyosis can often be seen together with endometriosis. The two conditions are related by similar mechanisms but affect different anatomical regions.

How Is It Diagnosed?

Transvaginal ultrasound and especially MRI are the most important diagnostic methods. Thickening of the uterine wall and a heterogeneous structure are typical.

Ultrasound Findings

A heterogeneous appearance in the myometrium, small cystic areas, and uterine enlargement are commonly observed.

MRI Findings

Thickening of the junctional zone (>12 mm) and focal lesions within the myometrium are important for diagnosis.

Who Is More Commonly Affected?

It is more common in multiparous women, patients over 35 years old, and individuals with hormonal imbalances.

Treatment Options

Hormonal therapies (progestins, hormonal IUDs), pain relievers, and in advanced cases, surgical treatment options may be applied.

Effect on Fertility

Adenomyosis can contribute to infertility by making embryo implantation difficult.

Conclusion

Adenomyosis is a common condition, but its diagnosis is often delayed. With accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment, symptoms can be controlled.