Adenomyosis

​​​​​​About adenomyosis

Adenomyosis is when tissue that normally lines the inside of your womb grows into the muscle layer of the womb. It can happen in all, or just part of the womb.

It is a non-cancerous condition and isn’t caused by an infection. It can’t be passed from person to person.

The exact cause of adenomyosis is not known.

You can find out more about adenomyosis on NHS Inform.

Check out the living with adenomyosis video by Alliance on YouTube.

Symptoms

Adenomyosis isn’t life-threatening, however the symptoms can significantly affect your quality of life and daily activities.

Symptoms can include:

• heavy periods​
• periods that last longer than normal
• severe period pain or cramping that interferes with your daily life
  
• a heavy feeling of pressure in the lower tummy
• bloating, which may make the tummy appear larger than normal

Some people don’t have any symptoms.

When to contact your GP

Book an appointment with your GP if your symptoms are affecting your daily life.

Getting the right medical advice and support can help manage the condition.

List of surgeries and GPs in Jersey

Out of Hours GP service

Getting a diagnosis

During your appointment, your doctor will ask about your:

• symptoms
• medical history

They will usually do a pelvic examination to look for possible causes of your symptoms and check the vulva, vagina, and cervix.

If more tests are needed, you may be referred to a specialist. To get a clearer picture of the womb and help rule out other conditions, they may carry out an:

• ultrasound scan
  
• MRI scan

Treatment

Treatment options will depend on your symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe:

• anti-inflammatory medication to relieve mild pain and discomfort
• treatment during your period​ to help reduce heavy bleeding
  
• hormone therapy, such as the contraceptive pill, to help manage heavy periods or period pain

Surgery

In severe cases, sometimes a hysterectomy is recommended. This is when the womb is removed. It’s only considered when other treatments haven’t worked.

Your doctor will:

• discuss the most suitable treatment options for you
• explain the benefits and risks
  
• answer any questions you may have

You can find out more about having a hystere​ctomy on NHS.