Endometriosis vs Adenomyosis

Endometriosis and adenomyosis are two conditions that affect millions of women worldwide. While they may sound similar and have some overlaps, they are actually two distinct conditions.

The biggest difference between Endometriosis and Adenomyosis is the location of the displaced endometrial tissue. Endometriosis occurs when the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus, called the endometrium, grows outside of the uterus. Adenomyosis, on the other hand, is when the endometrial tissue grows into the muscle wall (myometrium) of the uterus. Both conditions cause similar symptoms, notably:

• Significant menstrual pain
• Heavy periods
• Pain with intercourse
• Pain with bowel movements
• Pelvic pain
• Infertility

Diagnosing endometriosis and adenomyosis require different methods. The gold standard for diagnosing endometriosis is laparoscopic surgery, where a small camera is inserted into the abdomen to view the pelvic organs. This is due to the fact that ultrasound or other imaging studies may not be able to identify the disease. Adenomyosis, on the other hand, may be diagnosed through ultrasound or MRI.

When it comes to conventional treatment, both conditions may be treated with hormone therapy (most commonly hormonal contraception) or pain medication. Surgery is also a potential treatment option for both conditions. Laparoscopic surgery is not only a diagnostic tool for endometriosis but can also be a method of removing the displaced endometrial tissue. Adenomyosis can also benefit from adenomyomectomy (removal of displaced endometrial tissue in the muscle layer of the uterus).

Other integrative or natural treatment options may include addressing the hormonal imbalances that often come with these conditions, namely estrogen dominance, addressing immune dysfunction and reducing inflammation. Botanical, supplemental, nutritional, and lifestyle interventions can be helpful in addressing these conditions.

These conditions are often disruptive to people’s lives. And it can be challenging to identify the cause of your symptoms without the guidance of a medical professional. If you are experiencing symptoms like pelvic pain, heavy periods, pain with intercourse or bowel movements, or infertility, call Natural Kid Doc to schedule with our women’s health doctor to help develop a plan that works for you.

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