Adenomyosis - UAB Medicine

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Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis is a condition affecting women in which the inner lining of the uterus, the endometrium, breaks through the outer muscle walls of the uterus, or womb. It can cause menstrual cramps, lower abdominal pressure, pain during intercourse, and bloating before menstrual periods. It also can result in heavy periods. Adenomyosis may cause the uterus to double or triple in size. It is not life-threatening, but the pain and heavy bleeding can negatively affect a woman’s quality of life. It is a common condition that is most often diagnosed in women older than 30 who have had children. Most women have some adenomyosis as they near menopause, but few have symptoms.

The disease usually disappears after menopause because estrogen hormone production decreases. The cause isn’t known, but various hormones may trigger the condition. An ultrasound of the uterus may help distinguish between adenomyosis and other uterine conditions. Treatment includes pain medication, birth control pills, or sometimes a hysterectomy, in which the uterus is removed.

UAB Obstetrics and Gynecology offers comprehensive women’s health care in a private, personal environment, with physicians and nurses who are dedicated to delivering excellent care. Because our physicians are nationally recognized specialists in their fields, you can rest assured that you are receiving the most advanced care available. UAB Obstetrics and Gynecology is consistently ranked among the best programs of its kind in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

As part of the UAB Division of Women’s Reproductive Healthcare, UAB Obstetrics and Gynecology’s services range from complete obstetric care to the medical and surgical treatment of complicated gynecological concerns. We work closely with the UAB Medicine Interventional Radiology team to diagnose and treat your condition, using the latest and most accurate technology and imaging methods, including fluoroscopy, ultrasound, and CT scans. Because UAB Medicine is an academic health center, patients may be offered participation in clinical research trials, which can give you access to new techniques and treatments that are not available elsewhere in the area. Our physicians are here for you at all times, from your first routine gynecological exam, to delivering your baby, to guiding you through menopause. When you establish a relationship with our doctors, you can rely upon that relationship throughout your lifetime.