Adenomyosis is a condition where the tissue that normally lines the uterus (known as endometrial tissue) starts to go into the muscular wall of the uterus. Because the displaced tissue is affected by hormones, it continues to act like normal muscular tissue — thickening, breaking down, and bleeding — during each menstrual cycle.
Although the condition is common, middle-aged women, those who have previously given birth, and anyone who's undergone uterine surgery (including C-sections) are often diagnosed the most.
As a result, women with adenomyosis may experience the following symptoms:
- Painful cramping and heavy bleeding during your period
- Passing blood clots during menstruation
- Unexplained bleeding between your periods
- Pain during sex, especially around the time of your period
- Swelling or tenderness in your lower belly
