March 8, 2023 4:51 pm
The condition is often referred to as endometriosis’s “evil twin sister”, with the only known cure being aTracey Kelly, from Scotland but living in Dublin, was diagnosed last month at the age of 56 despite first experiencing painful, heavy periods as a teenager. Adenomyosis is more commonly associated with long and heavy periods, while endometriosis is more likely to impact fertility, she said.Adenomyosis can be investigated and diagnosed with a transvaginal ultrasound scan and/or an MRI.
There are some similarities between endometriosis and adenomyosis as both conditions are caused by endometrial-like tissue growing in the wrong place, but they are classed as “two separate gynaecological conditions”, said Joanne Hanley, Endometriosis UK’s Specialist Advisor. But Ms Hanley called for a separate set of guidelines advising GPs and specialists on how to treat adenomyosis. She said: “Because it is classed as a separate condition it should ideally have its own separate pathway.”
She demanded “more research and funding” into the condition to establish further treatments. She cannot opt for a hysterectomy, as she wants children, so has to rely on hormonal contraception in an attempt to control her heavy, painful periods.