How do I know if I have endometriosis or adenomyosis?

Sep 24, 2024

Endometriosis and adenomyosis both involve uterine tissue growing where it shouldn’t, causing pain and infertility. Endometriosis affects areas outside the uterus, while adenomyosis impacts the uterine wall itself.

Endometriosis:

This is a condition where cells similar to the cells in the lining of your uterus grow outside the uterus and into the pelvic area. This can cause severe pelvic pain, painful bowel movements, pain during intercourse, frequent urination, heavy menstrual bleeds, bleeding/spotting mid cycle, fatigue and bloating. It can also cause issues with conceiving. 1 in 10 females have endometriosis. 30-50% of those with endometriosis will have issues conceiving. Some endometriosis can be seen on an MRI but for complete diagnosis and treatment a laparoscopy is required. This is keyhole surgery performed to remove the tissue.

Adenomyosis:

Adenomyosis is similar to endometriosis in that it is also associated with displacement of uterine lining cells. In this case the lining of the uterus grows into the uterine muscle causing a thickening or enlarging of the uterine wall. Symptoms include pain, pressure in the lower pelvic region,heavy bleeding, spotting and fertility issues. Diagnosis may be obtained by a well trained sonographer using ultrasound or by a well trained radiographer using MRI.