What are the symptoms of adenomyosis?

Jul 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, adenomyosis is a benign lesion caused by the invasion of endometrial tissue into the uterine muscle layer. Its main symptoms include progressive dysmenorrhea, increased menstrual flow, prolonged menstruation, lower abdominal heaviness, and uterine enlargement. If the above symptoms occur in daily life, discomfort can be alleviated by maintaining a regular作息 (作息 translates to "routine" or "rest and activity schedule"), avoiding excessive fatigue, and keeping warm during menstruation.

Generally, as a benign lesion caused by endometrial invasion into the uterine muscle layer, adenomyosis mainly presents with symptoms including progressive dysmenorrhea, increased menstrual bleeding, prolonged menstrual periods, lower abdominal pressure, and uterine enlargement. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Progressive Dysmenorrhea: Patients develop gradually worsening dysmenorrhea, meaning the pain becomes more severe with each menstrual cycle. The pain often starts 1-2 days before menstruation begins, peaks during the first or second day of the period, and then gradually subsides. The pain is primarily located in the central lower abdomen and may radiate to the lower back, sacral area, and perineum. Severe pain may require analgesic medication for relief.

2. Increased Menstrual Bleeding: Menstrual flow becomes significantly heavier, sometimes dripping down the legs, and often contains large blood clots. This occurs because the enlarged uterus increases the surface area of the endometrium, and the ectopic endometrial tissue within the muscle layer affects uterine contraction, resulting in increased bleeding.

3. Prolonged Menstrual Periods: Normal menstrual periods typically last 3-7 days; however, in patients with adenomyosis, the duration may extend beyond 10 days. Menstrual bleeding may be prolonged and persistent throughout the menstrual cycle, with some patients experiencing light spotting even after the period ends.

4. Lower Abdominal Pressure: Patients often feel a sensation of pressure in the lower abdomen, particularly during menstruation. This may be accompanied by low back pain. The pressure and pain may worsen after physical exertion, prolonged standing, or sexual intercourse, and may ease slightly with rest but rarely disappear completely.

5. Uterine Enlargement: As the condition progresses, the uterus gradually enlarges and becomes firmer, typically showing uniform enlargement not exceeding the size of a 12-week pregnant uterus. Patients may feel the outline of the enlarged uterus in the abdomen, especially when the bladder is full. The enlarged uterus may compress surrounding tissues, potentially causing discomfort such as frequent urination.

If the above symptoms occur in daily life, individuals can alleviate discomfort by maintaining regular作息 (作息 translates as作息 here, but may be better omitted or adapted contextually), avoiding excessive fatigue, and keeping warm during menstruation. Regular gynecological examinations to monitor disease progression can also help implement appropriate measures to relieve symptoms.

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What does it mean to have two menstrual periods in one month?

Having two menstrual periods usually refers to experiencing menstruation twice. In general, the main causes of having two menstrual cycles include emotional fluctuations, irregular lifestyle, luteal phase deficiency, endometrial polyps, adenomyosis, and others. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to promptly seek medical attention at a正规 hospital for proper diagnosis and treatment. In daily life, maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid staying up late; also ensure a balanced diet.

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Why does my menstrual cycle occur once every half month?

In general, the main causes of having menstrual periods every half month include hormonal fluctuations during puberty, excessive stress, luteal phase deficiency, endometrial polyps, and adenomyosis. If this condition occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid staying up late; keep emotional stability and reduce mental stress.

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How are uterine fibroids caused?

Under normal circumstances, the main causes of uterine fibroids include hormonal changes, aging, endometritis, polycystic ovary syndrome, and adenomyosis. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, one should maintain external genital hygiene and avoid unclean sexual activity; maintain a regular diet and balanced nutrition.

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How large is the size of uterine adenomyosis considered severe?

To determine the severity of adenomyosis, the size of the lesion should not be the sole criterion. A comprehensive assessment is required, taking into account the extent of the lesion, symptom presentation, growth rate, and impact on fertility. Generally, the condition is considered relatively mild when the lesion is localized, the uterine volume is not significantly increased, and symptoms are mild. However, the condition may be more severe if the lesion is extensive, the uterine volume is markedly increased, or symptoms significantly affect quality of life, even if individual lesions are not large.