What is adenomyosis?

Adenomyosis is a benign (non-cancerous) gynaecological condition that affects the womb. It occurs when the tissue that normally lines the cavity of the womb (endometrium), is abnormally found in the muscle layer of the womb (myometrium).

​

Around 1 in 5 women have adenomyosis and it is thought to cause heavy periods, painful periods, pelvic pain and difficulty conceiving. 

​

Unfortunately, adenomyosis is still largely underdiagnosed and it can take many years before a woman receives treatment. 

Adenomyosis can be diagnosed by internal (transvaginal) ultrasound or by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Referral to an expert in adenomyosis imaging might be necessary in some cases to secure the diagnosis.

​

Symptoms of adenomyosis can be treated and many of the options are hormonal. Definitive treatment of adenomyosis is the removal of the uterus by surgery, called hysterectomy.

​