Adenomyosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows into the muscular wall of the uterus. This can cause the uterus to become enlarged, inflamed, and more sensitive, often leading to painful periods, pelvic discomfort, and changes in quality of life.
Adenomyosis is relatively common, particularly in women in their 30s and 40s, although it can affect women of different ages. Symptoms can vary significantly, with some women experiencing mild discomfort while others experience pain that affects work, exercise, relationships, and everyday activities.
While pelvic health physiotherapy cannot remove adenomyosis itself, it can be an important part of a wider management approach by helping to reduce pain, improve movement, and support your body through the physical effects of the condition.
The symptoms of adenomyosis can vary, but commonly include:
Some women experience symptoms throughout the month, while others notice symptoms mainly around menstruation.
Adenomyosis involves changes within the uterus itself, but the effects can extend beyond the reproductive organs.
Persistent pelvic pain can lead to changes such as:
Over time, these adaptations can contribute to ongoing discomfort, even when the original trigger is being medically managed.
Diagnosis is usually made through assessment by a gynaecologist and may involve:
A pelvic health physiotherapist does not diagnose adenomyosis but can assess how the condition is affecting your muscles, movement, pain levels, and daily function.
Treatment is tailored around your symptoms, goals, and stage of recovery.
Some women with adenomyosis develop pelvic floor muscle tightness due to ongoing pain.
Treatment may focus on:
Not all pelvic floor problems involve weakness, and some people require relaxation and rehabilitation rather than strengthening exercises.
Physiotherapy can help you understand the relationship between pain, movement, muscles, and the nervous system.
Strategies may include:
Pain can often lead people to reduce activity, which may affect strength, confidence, and overall wellbeing.
Your physiotherapist can help you develop a realistic plan to return to:
Management of adenomyosis may involve a combination of approaches, including:
Pelvic health physiotherapy can complement medical treatment by helping manage the physical impact of the condition.
Living with pelvic pain can be challenging, particularly when symptoms are ongoing or unpredictable. Understanding your body and having the right support can make a significant difference.
A specialist pelvic health physiotherapist can provide a confidential, one-to-one assessment to identify contributing factors and create a personalised plan to help you move more comfortably and confidently.