Endometriosis and adenomyosis

Content written by Andrew T. Goldstein, MD

Endometriosis is when uterine lining (the endometrium) grows outside the uterine cavity. Women with endometriosis often experience severe pain which is usually during ovulation and during menstruation In addition to the chronic pelvic pain these women experience, they also suffer from deep dyspareunia.

Adenomyosis is when the endometrium grows within the uterine muscle.

The cuase of endometriosis is unknown, it possible that endometrium flows out of the Fallopian tubes during periods and implants in the pelvis. It has also been hypothesized that the endometrial tissue is there from birth.

Symptoms of Endometriosis include: severely painful menstrual periods, spotting in-between periods, pelvic pain, nausea with menstrual periods, and pain with deep thrusting during intercourse.

While symptoms can be suggestive of endometriosis, the diagnosis of endometriosis, can only be made with a surgical procedure called a laparoscopy (with biopsy).

Treatment options include: Suppression of the endometriosis with hormonal contraceptive, Lupron or Danazol, or Surgery to destroy or excise (remove) the endometriosis.