Adenomyosis and Fertility: Diagnosis and Options
Adenomyosis is a condition in which the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus (endometrium) grows into the muscle wall of the uterus. It can cause painful, heavy periods.
Because it can affect fertility in some women, assessment matters. The overview below covers symptoms, diagnosis and approaches.
What is adenomyosis?
When endometrial tissue settles into the muscle layer of the uterus (myometrium), the uterus can enlarge and become tender. Unlike endometriosis, the tissue is within the uterine wall.
It can range from mild to marked.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms are not the same in everyone. Common ones include:
- Painful, heavy periods
- Chronic pelvic pain and a feeling of pressure
- Spotting between periods
- No symptoms at all in some women
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis weighs history, a gynaecological examination and imaging together. Transvaginal ultrasound, and MRI when needed, are commonly used.
A clear assessment requires your doctor to interpret the findings as a whole.
Effect on fertility and IVF
Adenomyosis can affect implantation and the course of pregnancy. Still, many women conceive with the right follow-up and planning.
If IVF is considered, an individual plan is made to prepare the uterine environment.
Treatment and approach
The approach is tailored to age, symptoms and the wish to conceive. Options are decided by your doctor:
- Medical treatments to manage pain and bleeding
- Hormonal options
- Preparing the uterine environment before IVF
- Surgical assessment in selected cases
Related Reading
- Endometriosis and Fertility: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Getting Pregnant
- Recurrent Miscarriage and Implantation Failure: Causes and What Can Help
- Why Does IVF Fail? Common Reasons and What to Do Next
Sources and references
This article is supported by the following independent, authoritative sources: