The female uterus is a rather fascinating organ. It is a pear-shaped organ that grows exponentially during pregnancy to accommodate a growing fetus.
Another fascinating thing about the uterus is the lining it is made of. The lining of the uterus is made of special endometrial cells that are shed every month in the absence of a pregnancy. These cells thicken, break down, and shed during menstruation. Sometimes, these endometrial tissues grow outside the uterus, in other reproductive organs such as the ovaries or the fallopian tubes. When these cells shed, they do not have a discharge outlet, which results in tissue clamps. This condition is called Endometriosis. It is a painful condition and requires medical care.
On the other hand, adenomyosis is a condition where these endometrial tissues grow into the muscular wall of the uterus. This displaces the normal muscle of the uterus, causing enlargement and often pain.
While both these conditions result in the abnormal growth of the endometrial tissues, these are often confused with each other. You can visit the best fertility centre in Varthur to find out more about the conditions and how these will affect your fertility.
What are the symptoms of Endometriosis & Adenomyosis?
Both Endometriosis & Adenomyosis are a condition that is caused by the abnormal growth of the endometrial tissues and causes pain. They are often confused with each other due to having similar symptoms. Some of the symptoms of endometriosis are:
- Painful and heavy periods
- Painful urination and stools
- Painful intercourse
- Pelvic pain
- Nausea, fatigue, diarrhoea, especially during menstruation
Some of the symptoms of Adenomyosis are:
- Enlarged belly due to enlarged uterus
- Painful periods accompanied by heavy bleeding
- Infertility
- Painful intercourse
- Pelvic pain
It is possible to suffer from one or both of these conditions simultaneously. If you have noticed any of the following symptoms, you can visit a good fertility doctor near you. They will run some tests to help with the diagnosis.
What are the causes of Endometriosis & Adenomyosis?
Endometriosis & Adenomyosis are related to the abnormal growth of the endometrial tissues. Due to this, the factors responsible for both these conditions are often similar.
Some common causes of Endometriosis & Adenomyosis are:
- Any tissue injury, repair, or trauma to the uterus can cause the abnormal growth of the endometrial tissues. Sometimes, these tissues can grow outside the uterus during the healing process, causing endometriosis.
- Conditions such as retrograde menstruation, where the menstrual blood flows into the fallopian tubes, leaving traces of endometrial cells.
- A weakened immune system can let strayed endometrial cells grow abnormally inside or outside the uterus.
- Stem cells activated due to injury in the endometrial cells can lead to abnormal growth.
- Irregular estrogen levels in the body may cause embryonic cells to convert into endometrial cells.
- The body’s lymphatic system can carry endometrial cells to other reproductive parts.
- Genetic factors. Often, Endometriosis is genetically inherited.
When should you see a doctor?
You should immediately visit the best fertility clinic in Varthur if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Painful periods with heavy bleeding and severe cramps
- Painful intercourse
- A bulge in the stomach area
- Fever, nausea, or extreme pelvic pain.
Often, it is difficult to differentiate between the two based on the symptoms. A fertility doctor near you may physically examine you for an enlarged belly, which is a major sign of adenomyosis.
What are the treatment options for Endometriosis & Adenomyosis?
The treatment for Endometriosis & Adenomyosis is based on the severity of the condition. For mild symptoms, over-the-counter medications often suffice. If the symptoms are worse, doctors may recommend the following treatment options for Endometriosis:
- Anti-inflammatory drugs and hormonal treatments to regulate periods
- Medications to Restrict endometrial tissue Growth
- Medications such as progestins, androgens, and Gonadotropin-releasing hormones are known to reduce endometrial laparoscopy and may be used to remove the abnormal growth of the endometrial cells
- Doctors may suggest a conservative surgery for couples wanting to conceive in the future. If not, a hysterectomy may be best.
These are the treatment options for Adenomyosis:
- Oral contraceptive pills
- High-dose progestins or Gonadotropin-releasing hormones
- Endometrial ablation, where a laser or other ablation techniques are used to destroy the endometrial wall inside the uterus
- Uterine artery embolization
- MRI-guided ultrasound surgery to remove the endometrial layer inside the uterus
Conclusion
Both Endometriosis & Adenomyosis are painful conditions but completely treatable. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to a successful recovery. Modern treatment options and conservative surgery will certainly help you conceive again. You should always consult the best fertility centre in Varthur for the best treatment and care.
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Both conditions are difficult and painful to live with. However, endometriosis is difficult to treat and may cause infertility as well.
Yes, you can get pregnant even if you have adenomyosis. It is essential to recognize the early signs and seek timely treatment to improve your chances of getting pregnant.
Though adenomyosis is not exactly cancer, its presence is known to be associated with adenocarcinoma, a common type of gynaecological cancer.
Yes, you can both these conditions at the same time. Your doctor will help you with pain medications to manage your symptoms.
There is a very minimal chance (about 0.3% to 0.4%) of your endometriosis being due to a c-section. However, there are a few instances where this has happened.
