Derived from the Greek terms adeno- (meaning gland), myo-(meaning muscle) and osis-(meaning condition), the word ‘Adenomyosis’ is a medical situation where the internal lining of the uterus (scientifically known as endometrium) splits through the muscle wall of the uterus (scientifically known as myometrium).
The condition of Adenomyosis exists in women usually between the age ranging from 35 to 50 and considered a common disorder. The patients who encounter such situation, experience menstrual cramps, lower abdominal pressure and swelling prior to their menstrual periods resulting in heavy bleeding.
Symptoms of Adenomyosis
About one-third of the women with Adenomyosis condition does not face any symptoms, while others deal with severe symptoms especially when the endometrial implants that develop into the wall of the uterus discharge vaginally as menstrual bleeding. Further symptoms include the following:
- Profuse and constant menstrual bleeding for about 8 to 14 days at a stretch.
- Acute pelvic pain persisting during the cycle of menstruation and ovulation.
- Experiencing cramps in the abdominal area.
- Feeling of ‘Contraction’ of the uterus.
- Pain at the time of intercourse.
- Severe clotting of blood during menstrual cycle.
Advance studies on Adenomyosis suggests that women in their middle ages , women who have given birth to children and those who have undergone uterine surgery in the earlier years are at a high risk of getting exposed to Adenomyosis.
Main Causes of Adenomyosis
Even though the exact reason for the condition of Adenomyosis in women is not known, expert theories suggest some of the following:
Direct intrusion of Tissue Growth
When the endometrial cells from the uterus thrust its way towards the muscle of the uterus wall, Adenomyosis condition is developed. This can take place during the process of a Cesarean Section when uterine splits are made to invade the walls of the uterine.
From Birth
Some experts are of the opinion that Adenomyosis develops within the muscle of the uterine from endometrial tissue settled, when the uterus is formed in the fetus at the beginning.
Inflammation Caused in the Uterine During Childbirth
There could be chances of occurrences of inflammation of the uterus lining during surgical procedures of childbirth, resulting in Adenomyosis.
Bone Marrow Stem Cell Origins
A latest theory explains that there is a possibility when the bone marrow stem cells thrust into the uterine muscle and cause Adenomyosis.
Excess Levels of Estrogen
Studies also reveal that the state of Adenomyosis occurs especially among middle-aged women since it is during this period that women possess increased level of estrogen and abandon the production of natural progesterone. At menopause when production of estrogen decreases, Adenomyosis disappears.
Some theories confirm that infertility in women can be due to the presence of this condition -Adenomyosis. Medications and heating pads cure gentle symptoms of Adenomyosis and helps in reducing severe aches and cramps. Doctors often prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs for ceasing pain. Some hormonal therapies can also help in the condition. However, the only cure for the condition is hysterectomy or removal of the uterus.
