Adenomyosis vs Endometriosis: Diagnosis, Symptoms & Treatment

Episode Summary:

Adenomyosis is one of the most underdiagnosed conditions in women’s health. It causes heavy periods, chronic cramping, and fertility challenges—yet many women are told their pain is normal or misdiagnosed with endometriosis alone.

In this episode of the Fempower Health podcast, I share key points that Dr. Ken Sinervo, Medical Director at the Center for Endometriosis Care, shared in our recent interview. The episode breaks down the science behind adenomyosis, why it’s so often missed, and what every woman deserves to know about diagnosis and treatment.

What Is Adenomyosis—and Why Is It Overlooked?

Adenomyosis occurs when tissue similar to the endometrial lining grows into the uterine muscle.Dr. Sinervo describes it as a "bruised muscle effect”—causing pain, internal inflammation, and pressure.

Unlike endometriosis, which grows outside the uterus, adenomyosis lives within the uterine wall—and can’t be removed without removing the uterus.

Adenomyosis vs. Endometriosis: Key Differences

Many women have both conditions, but here’s how they differ:

Adenomyosis: Within the uterus; causes heavy bleeding, cramping, back pain
Endometriosis: Outside the uterus; linked to bowel/bladder symptoms, fatigue, and infertility
Diagnosis: Adenomyosis requires imaging (ultrasound or MRI); endometriosis often requires laparoscopic surgery

Why Diagnosis Is So Difficult

Dr. Sinervo explains why many clinicians overlook adenomyosis:

It mimics symptoms of endometriosis and fibroids
Imaging can be inconclusive
OB-GYN training doesn’t always emphasize it
Many patients aren’t taken seriously

Treatment Options for Adenomyosis

Preserving fertility? Consider:

Progesterone IUDs (e.g. Mirena, Liletta)
Hormonal therapies (oral or vaginal)
Lifestyle approaches (anti-inflammatory diet, pelvic PT)

Done having children?

Hysterectomy is the only curative option—but not always necessary. Dr. Sinervo notes that many patients manage symptoms without surgery.

Why Awareness Matters

Delayed diagnosis isn’t just frustrating—it can lead to years of unnecessary surgeries, failed fertility treatments, and preventable suffering.

By understanding adenomyosis, patients and clinicians can make informed, personalized decisions about care.

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Disclaimer

The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor. Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.

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Adenomyosis vs. Endometriosis: Understanding the Differences That Matter for Women’s Health