Adenomyosis is a condition where the endometrial tissue that normally lines the uterus, grows into the uterine muscle wall, unlike endometriosis, which grows on the outside of the uterus.

During a menstrual cycle, the tissue continues to grow, degrade and bleed regularly. Sometimes resulting in an enlarged uterus and a painful, heavy menstruation. It is important to remember that while symptoms such as heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, severe cramping or pain during intercourse are often associated with adenomyosis, some women experience only mild symptoms and some no symptoms at all, sometimes making this condition hard to diagnose. It is thought roughly 1 in 5 women has adenomyosis, affecting women who have periods between the ages of 30-50.

While specialists are unsure what causes adenomyosis exactly, your risk may increase if you have had any surgery or procedures on your uterus (C-section, for example).

The condition generally cures following menopause. Some women find hormonal therapies help with the discomfort associated with adenomyosis, however, the only way to heal adenomyosis permanently is to have a hysterectomy, which is a complete uterine removal.

Adenomyosis can cause complications such as infertility, a higher risk of pregnancy complications and anaemia or iron deficiency if you are having heavy periods.

It is very important if you are experiencing any pelvic pain, heavy menstrual cycles, pain during intercourse or any other pelvic symptoms which stop you from doing your usual activities that you make an appointment with your GP and ask to be referred to a specialist gynaecologist.