Adenomyosis occurs when the cells from the lining of the womb are found in the muscle wall of the womb (uterus). These cells grow, break down and then bleed during each period. This can cause heavy, painful and/or irregular periods.

What is adenomyosis?

Many women with adenomyosis experience symptoms such as:

• heavy, painful, or irregular periods
• pre-menstrual pelvic pain (pain in the lower part of your tummy)
• feelings of heaviness or discomfort in the pelvis
• bloating

Other possible symptoms include:

• pain during sex
• pain when having a poo
• an enlarged womb

It's important to note that around one in three women may not experience any symptoms.

Find out more about adenomyosis, it's symptoms and treatments

Sarah's journey with adenomyosis

Despite one in ten women having adenomyosis, it's not a well-known condition. Many women face challenges in obtaining a diagnosis and appropriate treatment for adenomyosis.

Sarah's journey began at school, where she endured heavy periods, often wearing both a pad and a tampon at the same time to prevent leaks. As she got older, she found the bleeding, that would regularly go through her sheets to the mattress, could make relationships difficult. The pain then intensified. Extreme bloating felt like bowling balls in her uterus, and intense pain during ovulation and before her period would leave her bed-bound.

She sought medical help for years. After surgery to find out if she had endometriosis, Sarah was told she didn't have the condition and there would be no further investigations. But she continued to push for support.

Eventually she received a diagnosis of adenomyosis, after her supportive GP attended a specialist women's health conference and spoke to a gynaecologist about her symptoms.

What does she want other women and girls experiencing pain and heavy bleeding to know?

Seeking support and treatment

If you're experiencing symptoms like heavy bleeding and severe pain, it's crucial to understand that these are not "just a period."

You have the right to seek support and treatment. Make an appointment with your GP and ideally take along a diary of your periods and symptoms to help them make a diagnosis.

Treatments will depend on your symptoms and what's right for you.

Find out more about adenomyosis treatment options.

By raising awareness and sharing stories like Sarah's, we aim to empower women to seek the care they need and deserve. Remember, heavy bleeding and pain are not "just a period." This Adenomyosis Awareness Month, let's work together to shed light on this condition and support those affected.