I remember speaking to a woman who said her periods had always been heavy, but recently, they’d started to feel unbearable. She described how the pain would radiate to her back and thighs, and some days, she felt so drained she could barely get out of bed. What frustrated her the most was how these symptoms had crept up slowly over the years, leaving her questioning if this was just how life was supposed to feel.
Stories like hers are common among women with adenomyosis. Because its symptoms mimic other conditions, many women endure years of discomfort before getting a proper diagnosis. As a qualified nutrition coach certified by the Institute of Integrative Nutrition in New York, I wrote this article to help you understand the common symptoms of adenomyosis, so you can better recognise patterns and take steps toward effective care.
The common symptoms of adenomyosis include heavy menstrual bleeding, severe cramps, chronic pelvic pain, an enlarged uterus, and painful intercourse. Symptoms vary widely, with some women experiencing significant discomfort while others have mild or no symptoms at all.
What is Adenomyosis?
Adenomyosis is a condition where the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus (endometrium) begins to grow into the muscular walls of the uterus. This abnormal growth causes the uterine walls to thicken, leading to discomfort and various symptoms.
Although the precise cause isn’t fully understood, hormonal fluctuations and factors such as previous uterine surgeries, including fibroid removal or C-sections, are believed to increase the risk. While it is more commonly diagnosed in women who have had children, adenomyosis can also affect those who haven’t.
What are the Common Symptoms of Adenomyosis?
Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
One of the hallmark symptoms of adenomyosis is heavy menstrual bleeding. Periods may last longer than usual, and the flow can be so heavy that frequent pad or tampon changes are necessary. Some women also pass large blood clots, which can be alarming.
This excessive bleeding can lead to anaemia, resulting in fatigue, weakness, and a pale complexion. If you find yourself feeling unusually tired or light-headed during your period, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider.
Severe Menstrual Cramps
While many women experience some level of cramping during their periods, the cramps associated with adenomyosis can be intense and debilitating. This pain, known as dysmenorrhoea, often worsens over time and can radiate to the lower back or thighs, making it difficult to function during your cycle.
Chronic Pelvic Pain
Unlike cramps, which are tied to menstruation, chronic pelvic pain persists even outside of your period. This constant discomfort is a key symptom of adenomyosis and is thought to result from inflammation and the thickening of the uterine walls.
Living with daily pain can affect your quality of life, making it hard to focus on work or enjoy time with family and friends.
Enlarged Uterus
Adenomyosis can cause the uterus to enlarge, sometimes doubling or tripling in size. This can create a bloated or swollen appearance in the lower abdomen, often referred to as “adenomyosis belly.”
The pressure from an enlarged uterus may also affect nearby organs, leading to urinary frequency or bowel changes.
Painful Intercourse
Pain during intercourse, known as dyspareunia, is another symptom of adenomyosis. This can result from inflammation and tenderness in the uterus, making intimacy physically and emotionally challenging.
Fatigue and Weakness
Chronic pain and heavy bleeding often leave women feeling exhausted. This fatigue can significantly affect daily life, making even simple tasks feel overwhelming. Addressing the root causes of adenomyosis symptoms can help restore energy levels.
Tracking these symptoms can be helpful. Tools like the Unprocessed App allow women to log their experiences, identify patterns, and manage triggers effectively. Join the waitlist to begin your journey.
Less Common or Overlooked Symptoms
In addition to the more well-known symptoms, some women experience less common effects, such as:
- Bladder changes: An enlarged uterus can press on the bladder, causing frequent urination or a sense of urgency.
- Bowel changes: Pressure on the bowel may lead to symptoms like constipation or difficulty passing stools.
- Emotional symptoms: The chronic pain and disruption of adenomyosis can lead to anxiety, depression, or mood swings.
If you experience any of these symptoms, discussing them with a healthcare provider can provide clarity and help with management.
Why are Adenomyosis Symptoms Often Overlooked?
Adenomyosis symptoms are frequently mistaken for other conditions, such as fibroids or endometriosis. Both adenomyosis and endometriosis involve the abnormal growth of endometrial-like tissue, but their key difference lies in location.
Endometriosis occurs when tissue grows outside the uterus, while adenomyosis involves tissue penetrating the uterine muscle wall. This distinction isn’t always obvious, as the two conditions share symptoms like pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, and fatigue.
Think of adenomyosis as the “homebody” and endometriosis as the “adventurer.” One stays within the walls, while the other ventures outside to unexpected places.
Learning to differentiate these conditions is critical for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s essential to seek medical advice:
- Heavy bleeding lasting more than 7 days.
- Pain that interferes with your daily life.
- Noticeable bloating or pelvic pressure that doesn’t go away.
Your doctor can perform imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to confirm a diagnosis and recommend treatment options tailored to your needs.
FAQs
Can adenomyosis cause leg pain?
Yes, adenomyosis can sometimes cause referred pain in the legs due to pressure on nearby nerves or inflammation in the pelvic region.
Does adenomyosis increase the risk of blood clots?
While adenomyosis itself doesn’t directly cause blood clots, heavy bleeding can lead to clot formation during menstruation.
Can adenomyosis cause bladder issues?
Yes, an enlarged uterus from adenomyosis can press on the bladder, leading to symptoms like frequent urination or a sense of urgency.
Are adenomyosis symptoms constant or cyclical?
Symptoms can be both. Pain and bleeding often intensify during menstruation but may persist as chronic pelvic discomfort even outside of menstrual cycles.
Is there a link between adenomyosis and hormonal imbalances?
Yes, adenomyosis is closely associated with hormonal imbalances, particularly elevated oestrogen levels, which can make symptoms worse.
Closing Thoughts
Recognising the symptoms of adenomyosis is an important step toward finding relief and regaining control over your health. Although the condition can be challenging, understanding your body and seeking proper care can make a world of difference.
If you’re ready to take a proactive approach, tracking your symptoms with a tool like the Unprocessed App can be incredibly helpful. It’s designed to help women monitor their diet, symptoms, and overall well-being. Join the waitlist here to begin your journey.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. With the right information, support, and care, it’s entirely possible to live a full and vibrant life despite adenomyosis.
