The endometrium is a tissue that is present inside the uterus and it plays a major role in reproduction. This tissue peels off and shades itself during every menstrual cycle. If this tissue grows outside of the uterus, it can lead to conditions such as endometriosis and adenomyosis. Though both conditions look similar due to their symptoms, there is a difference between these conditions.
Both conditions have their impact on different organs of the body and they vary in their diagnosis and treatment methods.
What are Endometriosis and Adenomyosis?
Endometriosis is a condition where the endometrial tissue grows outside the ovaries, and vagina. The tissue can get implanted either on the surface of the bladder, bowel, or other parts of the body. As a result, it gets inflamed and cannot move outside the body. It causes painful and heavy periods. It is broadly divided into four stages based on severity such as stages 1, 2, 3, and 4.
In adenomyosis condition, the endometrial lining grows abnormally inside the myometrium muscle of the uterus. When it gets completely moved into the myometrium, this tissue sheds when the other endometrium sheds during the menstrual cycle. This causes severe pain, cramps, and heavy bleeding.
Symptoms of Endometriosis Vs Adenomyosis
Endometriosis and Adenomyosis are similar in certain ways, but they differ in their causes, and how they affect your body organs. In most cases, adenomyosis and endometriosis may remain unnoticed. But, knowing the signs of these conditions help you detect the problem early.
The symptoms of endometriosis include:
- Severe stomach pain
- Irregular menstrual cycle
- Constipation
- Heavy bleeding
- Infertility
- Pain during sex
The common signs of adenomyosis include the following:
- Blood clots during periods
- Stomach pain
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Occasional spotting
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Severe cramps during periods
- Irregular periods
What are the Differences in the Causes and Risk Factors of Endometriosis and Adenomyosis?
The exact cause of adenomyosis and endometriosis is unknown. But any repair and injury to the uterus tissue can make stem cells grow outside their actual location. This can lead to endometriosis and adenomyosis.
Apart from this, certain risk factors can also increase your chances of affecting with these conditions. The risk factors of endometriosis are as follows:
- History of uterus surgery in the past
- Family history of endometriosis
- If you are in your 30s and 40s
- Consumption of alcohol and smoking
- Short menstrual cycle
- High BMI
The risk factors of adenomyosis include:
- Mother of at least one child
- Being treated for breast cancer
- If you had periods at the age of 10
- Use of anti-depressants
- A shorter menstrual cycle which is less than 24 days or less
How Can a Doctor Differentiate Endometriosis and Adenomyosis During Diagnosis?
The doctor will first ask you about your signs, medical history, and when and how long the symptoms last. The doctor will perform a physical examination and other imaging tests to rule out other causes. To detect adenomyosis, the doctor conducts a physical exam to know if the uterus got enlarged, and swollen. If imaging tests are required, a sonohysterography will be performed.
To diagnose endometriosis, the doctor asks about your medical history and he will examine the pelvic area to look for any cysts. He may also conduct imaging tests such as MRI, and sonogram.
Do Endometriosis and Adenomyosis Require Similar or Different Treatment?
Both endometriosis and adenomyosis do not require any treatment until they cause any issues. If the adenomyosis symptoms are mild, over-the-counter can be used before and after the periods. Medicine may also be prescribed to keep estrogen levels in control. A uterine artery embolization procedure may be performed to block the blood flow to the uterus. But removing the uterus completely called “hysterectomy is the best solution.
If the signs of endometriosis are mild, over-the-counter medications can help you. If the signs are severe, then the treatment options include the use of hormone treatment. The hormonal treatment will be performed on a staging passion. The use of hormonal contraceptives can prevent your periods, and stops your signs. Surgery may be performed to remove the scar tissue growing outside the uterus. If you do not want kids anymore, a hysterectomy can be performed to remove the fallopian tube, uterus, and ovaries.
Have Signs of Adenomyosis and Endometriosis? Angels Fertility Can Help You
If you or your loved one have any signs of adenomyosis or endometriosis, do not neglect it and visit Angels Fertility today. Angels Fertility is one of the best fertility centers in Hyderabad offering a wide range of fertility treatments. Our team of experts have gained a reputation for our quality and affordable services. To know more about us, call us today.