Adenomyosis
Description
Adenomyosis is a medical condition that occurs when the tissue that normally lines the uterus grows into the muscular wall of the uterus. This endometrial tissue behaves the way it's supposed to — thickens, breaks down and bleeds — during each menstrual cycle. But because this tissue has no way to exit the body, it gets trapped. When adenomyosis-infected areas bleed, the surrounding muscle may respond with inflammation, and this can lead to painful and heavy periods, along with severe cramping during menstruation. If left untreated, it can potentially cause complications such as chronic pelvic pain and heavy bleeding, as well as difficulty in getting pregnant or miscarriage. Adenomyosis is often diagnosed through physical exams, especially if the uterus feels enlarged or tender, though definitive diagnosis usually depends on imaging tests or a biopsy. Ultrasound and MRI are commonly used to visualize the thickness of the uterine walls. Treatment options include hormone therapy to help manage the symptoms, and in severe cases, surgery may be required. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also be used to control the pain. However, after menopause, when hormone levels decrease, adenomyosis usually resolves on its own. Close monitoring by a healthcare professional is recommended in all cases.
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