Uterine Adenomyoma: Symptoms and Its Effect on Fertility

Uterine Adenomyoma is a condition that affects the uterus and can cause pain, heavy bleeding, and other health problems. There are many women who don’t even know they have it until it starts to cause issues in their daily life or when they are trying to get pregnant. So, it’s very important to understand this condition because its symptoms are similar to other common issues.

At Risaa IVF, Dr. Rita Bakshi, a Senior IVF Specialist and Experienced Gynaecologist, has helped many women who are facing problems related to uterine adenomyoma. In this blog, we will explain everything in simple words. We will include what uterine adenomyoma is, its symptoms, how it may affect fertility, and more.

What is Uterine Adenomyoma?

Uterine Adenomyoma is a non-cancerous growth that forms inside the wall of the uterus. It happens when the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus (called the endometrium) grows into the muscle layer of the uterus (called the myometrium). This creates a lump or mass that can cause pain, heavy periods, and sometimes problems with fertility.

This condition is different from general adenomyosis and this spreads more evenly across the uterus. In adenomyoma, the tissue forms one or more solid lumps, almost like a fibroid, but with different types of cells. These lumps can grow in size over time and may press against other parts of the uterus and this can lead to discomfort.

Uterine adenomyoma is not life-threatening but it can affect a woman’s life and make it difficult to get pregnant in some cases. So, it’s important to understand it early to manage symptoms and plan treatment.

Uterine Adenomyoma Causes

Uterine adenomyoma doesn’t have one clear cause but there are several factors that may increase the chances of developing it. It usually happens when the tissue that lines the uterus starts growing into the muscle layer due to hormonal changes or physical damage to the uterus.

Some possible causes include the following:

• Hormonal imbalance, especially high levels of estrogen
• Previous uterine surgeries like C-section or fibroid removal
• Pregnancy-related changes in the uterus
• Age, commonly seen in women between 30 to 50 years
• Other uterine conditions, such as fibroids or endometriosis
• Repeated periods over the years, which may cause wear on the uterine wall

Symptoms of Adenomyoma

Adenomyoma can cause different symptoms which depend on the size and location of the lump in the uterus. There are some women who may not feel anything at all and there are others who may experience discomfort or changes in their menstrual cycle. These symptoms often get worse over time if the condition is not treated on time.

Some common symptoms include the following:

1. Heavy menstrual bleeding
2. Severe period pain (cramps)
3. Pelvic pain or pressure
4. Pain during intercourse
5. Irregular periods
6. Difficulty in getting pregnant

Uterine Adenomyoma Diagnosis

The diagnosis of uterine adenomyoma can be difficult because its symptoms are similar to other conditions like fibroids or endometriosis. That’s why doctors use a mix of your medical history, physical check-ups, and imaging tests to find out what’s going on.

Here are the some common steps that are used to diagnose adenomyoma:

• Pelvic Examination – A doctor may feel a slightly enlarged or tender uterus during a routine check-up.
• Ultrasound (TVS) – A transvaginal ultrasound that helps the doctor to see the uterus clearly and spot any unusual lumps or thick areas in the muscle wall.
• MRI Scan – In some cases, an MRI gives a more detailed picture to confirm if it’s an adenomyoma and not something else.
• Medical History & Symptoms – The doctor may ask about period pain, heavy bleeding, or any issue with fertility to get a better understanding.
• Laparoscopy (rarely needed) – In rare cases, a small surgery using a camera may be done to take a closer look if other tests don’t give clear results.

Adenomyoma Treatment

Fertility and Adenomyoma

Adenomyoma can sometimes make it difficult for a woman to get pregnant. This is because the lump in the uterus may change its shape or make it less healthy for a baby to grow. It can also affect how the uterus works during the early days of pregnancy.

In some women, adenomyoma may stop the embryo from attaching properly or cause poor blood flow to the uterine lining. This can create issues in getting pregnant or even early miscarriage. There are some women who may also face issues during IVF if adenomyoma is present.

But it’s important to know that not every woman with adenomyoma has fertility issues. There are many who can still conceive naturally or with the help of treatment.  Many women are able to become mothers with the right care, such as medicines, minor surgery, or fertility treatments like IVF. So, it’s important to get early advice from an infertility specialist to really help.

Adenomyoma vs Adenomyosis

Adenomyoma and adenomyosis are both conditions where the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus starts growing into the muscle wall. The main difference is how the tissue spreads. In adenomyosis, the tissue is spread out across a larger area, while in adenomyoma, it forms a single, solid lump. Both can cause pain, heavy periods, and may affect fertility, but they look and behave differently inside the uterus.

Final Words

Uterine adenomyoma is a condition that can silently affect a woman’s health, periods, and fertility. It’s important to know about it so that timely treatment can make life more comfortable and improve the chances of pregnancy. In this blog, we have explained what uterine adenomyoma is, its causes, symptoms, how it affects fertility, and the ways it can be diagnosed and treated.

At RISAA IVF, we regularly help women in dealing with uterine adenomyoma. Under the expert care of Dr. Rita Bakshi (Senior IVF Specialist and Gynaecologist), we want to provide the right diagnosis and treatment to make your fertility journey smoother. If you are facing similar symptoms or need guidance, feel free to call us at 95555 44421/22/23 or email [email protected] for support and expert advice.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

• Is IVF possible with uterine adenomyoma?

Yes, IVF is possible and often successful, especially when the condition is treated or managed before starting fertility treatment.

• Can you get pregnant with uterine adenomyoma?

Yes, you can get pregnant with uterine adenomyoma, though it may affect fertility in some cases, and treatment can help improve the chances.

• Is uterine adenomyoma the same as fibroids?

No, they are different. Adenomyoma is made of both muscle and gland tissue, while fibroids are only muscle tissue.

• Can adenomyoma come back after treatment?

Yes, in some cases, adenomyoma can return, especially if the uterus is not removed. Regular follow-ups help in early detection.

• Is uterine adenomyoma cancerous?

No, adenomyoma is a non-cancerous (benign) condition. It can cause discomfort but does not turn into cancer.