Adenomyosis vs Fibroids: Differences, Symptoms & Treatment Explained

What is Adenomyosis?

Adenomyosis is a condition in which endometrial tissue (the lining of the uterus) grows into the muscular wall of the uterus (the myometrium). This abnormal growth can thicken the walls of the uterus, which can lead to pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and bloating.

Key facts about adenomyosis:

• There may be a noticeable enlargement or pain in your uterus.
• Symptoms may include heavy menstrual bleeding, severe cramps, & bloating.
• It is most common in women aged between 35 and 50 years.

Adenomyosis is not life-threatening, but it can severely impact a woman’s quality of life, especially during her menstrual period. Although the cause of adenomyosis is unknown, the condition usually disappears after menopause.

Also Read : How to treat an irregular period?

What are Fibroids?

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Uterine fibroids may be classified based on their location/origin and attachment mode. Specific types of uterine fibroids include:

• Submucosal fibroids : Fibroids that grow under the inner lining of your uterus.
• Intramural fibroids : These are found embedded in the muscular wall of your uterus. These are the most common types of fibroids.
• Subserosal fibroids : This type of fibroid grows under the lining of the outer surface of your uterus. They may get very large and can grow into your pelvis.

Key facts about fibroids:

• Fibroid size can range from very small to very large.
• Common symptoms include heavy periods, pelvic pain, increased frequency of urination, constipation, and abdominal distension.
• These procedures are strongly related to hormonal disorders and genetic susceptibility.

Adenomyosis vs Fibroids Causes and Risk Factors

Although the exact cause of fibroids and adenomyosis is unknown, there are several variables that increase the risk of acquiring them. Although the reasons for fibroids and adenomyosis are distinct, it is clear that both conditions are influenced by hormonal and genetic factors. Additionally, being able to distinguish between fibroids and adenomyosis can aid in early identification and treatment promotion.

Adenomyosis :

• A history of prior uterine surgery, such as fibroid excision or C-section.
• A history of extended exposure to elevated amounts of oestrogen.
• Women over the age of 35 are more likely to experience it.

Fibroids :

• Genetic factors show up to play an important role.
• Obesity increases the imbalance of hormones.
• History of fibroids in the family
• Elevated estrogen provides a stimulus for fibroid growth.

Although both fibroids and adenomyosis are hormone-dependent, oestrogen levels have a particularly significant impact.

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Adenomyosis vs Fibroids Diagnosis

Since adenomyosis and fibroids often have overlapping symptoms, including heavy bleeding and pelvic pain, accurate diagnosis is important in determining which treatment will be appropriate. Most doctors will start by conducting an extensive physical examination, studying the patient’s history, and then move on to imaging studies.

Fibroids are relatively easy to detect, as they create solid, distinct masses. Adenomyosis, on the other hand, tends to diffuse in the uterine muscle. Therefore, without advanced imaging, it is more difficult to locate adenomyosis.

Common diagnostic methods include:

• Pelvic exam : Helps identify uterine enlargement or tenderness.
• Ultrasound : First imaging to identify fibroids and/or uterine changes.
• MRI : Provides detailed images to distinguish adenomyosis from fibroids.
• Hysteroscopy or biopsy : Rarely used, but possibly useful for confirming diagnosis in specific cases.

Women who had more precise diagnoses were able to obtain tailored therapy that improved their chances of controlling their symptoms and achieving infertility.

Adenomyosis vs Fibroids Treatment Options

Adenomyosis Treatment

• Pain relief : If pain is severe, doctors suggest anti-inflammatory medications for pain control.
• Hormonal therapy : Combined estrogen and progestin birth control pills or contraceptive patches, or rings that contain hormones, may decrease the amount of heavy bleeding and pelvic pain associated with adenomyosis.
• Hysterectomy : When the pain is severe and no other treatments work, the doctor may suggest surgery to remove the uterus.

Fibroid Treatment Medications:

Uterine fibroid treatment tends to use medications designed to help stabilise hormones controlling the menstrual cycle and to alleviate symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pelvic pressure.

Non-invasive procedures:

• Uterine artery embolisation (UAE) : This treatment stops the blood supply to the fibroid, thereby making it wither out and become inactive.
• MRI-guided HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) : This procedure involves the destruction of the fibroid using sound waves, whereby the fibroid shrivels without surgical intervention.

Surgical options:

• Myomectomy : A myomectomy is when a surgeon removes the fibroids.
• Hysterectomy : This method is the removal of the uterus and is the only proven permanent procedure for uterine fibroids.

The choice of treatment depends on symptom age, severity, fertility goals, and overall health.

Which Condition is More Serious?

Adenomyosis and fibroids are non-cancerous and not life-threatening conditions. However, their impact ranges from non-serious to very serious, and varies from woman to woman. There are cases where women experience mild symptoms which they can bear, and there are cases where individuals experience prolonged severe bleeding, pain and infertility problems.

The impact of either condition will depend on:

• Severity of symptoms.
• Fertility goals (adenomyosis and fibroids can affect implantation and pregnancy outcomes).
• Response to treatment.

To choose the best course of action for a given situation, a gynaecologist's advice is crucial.

Conclusion

Despite the fact that they both affect the uterus, fibroids and adenomyosis have different traits, causes and treatment. Fibroids are benign tumours in the uterus, and adenomyosis is a condition whereby endometrial tissue extends into the uterine wall. Pelvic pain and heavy bleeding can be associated with both conditions, yet different approaches are used to treat them.

If you are experiencing ongoing menstrual pain or heavy bleeding, you should see a gynaecologist to get the right diagnosis and treatment. Early medical care may assist you in controlling symptoms better and enhancing your quality of living.

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