Adenomyosis vs endometriosis: what's the difference?
They're often confused and can coexist, but they are different.
The key difference
- Endometriosis: tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus.
- Adenomyosis: that tissue grows within the muscular wall of the uterus, which often enlarges.
Shared symptoms
Painful, heavy periods and pelvic pain. Adenomyosis is mainly linked to heavy bleeding and pressure; endometriosis to pelvic pain and pain with sex.
How they're treated
- Adenomyosis: medical management (hormonal, levonorgestrel IUD); when it doesn't respond and pregnancy is no longer desired, the definitive solution is hysterectomy, usually minimally invasive.
- Endometriosis: medical management and/or excision of lesions laparoscopically.
Why distinguishing them matters
The treatment changes. An accurate diagnosis — with good imaging and experience — avoids the wrong treatment.
Recognize these symptoms? Take the symptom self-test and, if you need it, book an online evaluation (USD $50) with a specialist in minimally invasive excision surgery for endometriosis.
FAQ
Can I have both?
Yes, they frequently coexist.
Can adenomyosis be treated while keeping the uterus?
In selected cases; it's often diffuse, and the definitive solution is hysterectomy.