Uterine fibroids are often combined with adenomyosis. This is the most common combination of diseases concerning the female reproductive sphere. It leads to changes in the tissues of a woman’s reproductive organs.
These diseases, if combined, complicate each other. Usually, they develop both at the same time. This is connected with similar causes for their development. These diseases commonly appear as a result of hormonal changes, causing abnormal changes in a woman’s uterus.
Difference Between Uterine Fibroids and Adenomyosis
A uterine fibroid is a non-malignant tumor that occurs in the uterine muscular tissue (myometrium). Adenomyosis is an abnormal growth of the intrauterine tissue (endometrium) into the uterine muscular layer. The fibroids are developed from muscular fiber, adenomyosis – from the cells of the internal uterine layer.
The Dangers of Both Diseases
A neglected adenomyosis allows endometrium to grow inside the surrounding organs (intestine and bladder) and interfere with their proper function. It can even cause lung lesion when the pleura fills with blood.
A uterine fibroid can get ruptured or necrotized at any moment. In rare cases, they can turn malignant. Even if no dangerous situation occurs, uterine fibroids may cause pain, menstrual disorders, and affect the quality of a woman’s life negatively.
Both diseases cause problems with fertility and increase the risks of having a miscarriage. This is why it is important to diagnose and treat them in time. With this, regular pelvic exams and diagnostics will help.
Causes of This Combination
Symptoms of the Diseases
The symptoms of both diseases are very similar. If you have noticed any of them, it may mean you have either uterine fibroids or adenomyosis or even both.
Diagnostics and Treatment
A pelvic exam, Pap test, an ultrasound exam, and colposcopy will help reveal the true diagnosis. In some cases, the diagnostics of respiratory, gastrointestinal, and cardiovascular system may be appointed. The treatment of the diseases depends much on the stage of its development.
If abnormal manifestations develop slowly and don’t bring much discomfort, a conservative treatment is recommended. This may mean hormonal and physical therapy, as well as natural treatment for fibroid tumors.
If the diameter of the lesion is more than 1 cm, surgery is usually appointed. The type of operation also depends on the stage of the disease. In severe cases, even the entire uterus may be removed. This is why the best way to save your reproductive health is being attentive to your body not to miss the warning symptoms.