Ever heard of adenomyosis?

Maybe not. But you’ve probably heard of endometriosis, right? It’s more well-known and for a long time, adenomyosis was once known as endometriosis-interna (internal

endometriosis). But while they sound similar, they are different. And it’s time we start talking about this silent struggle too. So, let’s get into this important conversation.

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What Exactly Is Adenomyosis?

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Adenomyosis is a poorly understood condition that affects the uterus (womb). In simple terms, it happens when the innermost lining of the uterus starts to grow into the

muscle wall of the uterus; the middle structure of the uterus where it’s not supposed to be. This misplacement symptoms and a range of complications. The uterus

becomes swollen, tender, and sometimes feels “boggy” (soft and mushy) when examined. The risk of adenomyosis may increase if you have had surgery or other

procedures on your uterus. Sadly, adenomyosis is often underdiagnosed, especially in African countries, where period pain is too often dismissed as “normal.”

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Symptoms to Watch Out For

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If you experience any of these signs consistently, please don’t ignore them:

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• Menorrhagia – Excessive/ heavy flow bleeding during menstruation.

• Dysmenorrhea – Extremely painful , worse than the usual cramps.

• Metrorrhagia – Abnormal bleeding between menstrual periods.

• Chronic pelvic pain – Lower abdominal pains that persist for a long time.

• Dyspareunia –  Painful sexual intercourse.

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Women with adenomyosis may also have an enlarged and painful uterus upon physical examination. Have you been having any of these symptoms? If yes, it's time for a

doctor's consultation.

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How Is It Diagnosed?

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Diagnosis involves a combination of external and transvaginal pelvic ultrasound along with a detailed symptom history.

Although for a more concrete diagnosis the hospital would have to collect a biopsy; a small tissue sample from the uterus to confirm the diagnosis under a microscope.

If you have had heavy bleeding, your doctor may organise blood tests to check your iron levels and blood count to rule out anaemia.

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Is There a Cure?

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The treatment of adenomyosis is not curative meaning there is no cure for this condition without a huge price to pay. The management is directed at treating the

symptoms with anti-inflammatory drugs(pain killers) and hormonal therapies. The definitive treatment is the removal of the uterus but of course, that is not an option for

women who desire to preserve fertility.

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Adenomyosis can cause complications such as:

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• Fertility problems which can be helped sometimes with options like in vitro fertilization, surrogacy and hormonal therapies.

• A higher risk of pregnancy complications, such as miscarriage or preterm delivery.

• Anaemia or iron deficiency due to heavy vaginal bleeding - this can be managed by taking iron or folic acid supplements as well as consumption of red meat and

         green leafy vegetables. If symptoms like tiredness, dizziness, and paleness persist…a medical checkup is the next step.

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Understanding Endometriosis: An African Woman's Perspective

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A Word to Every Woman Reading This

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Adenomyosis is not your fault.

It’s not something you caused by your food, behavior, or lifestyle changes.

It’s not God punishing you.

It’s a medical condition and you deserve care, not silence.

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Too many women across Africa are living with undiagnosed pain, thinking it's just a "woman thing" to suffer in silence. We’re here to say:

“Your pain is real. Your body deserves answers. You are not alone.”

If you see yourself in this article, please talk to a doctor. And know that our community is walking this journey with you.