Adenomyosis Treatment

Good Adenomyosis care often combines:

• Doctor-prescribed treatments

• At-home symptom management

• Lifestyle changes

In this section, we’ll walk you through the medical treatments your doctor might suggest, and highlight evidence-backed advice.

Adenomyosis may affect your fertility. If you're trying to conceive:

• Ask your GP about your options

• Ask about fertility clinics which can offer specific advice or referrals

Doctor Prescribed Treatments

1. Non-Hormonal Medicines

   Tranexamic Acid (to reduce bleeding) or NSAIDs (like Ibuprofen or Mefenamic Acid, to reduce pain and inflammation) can be taken during your period.

   Symptoms targeted: Heavy bleeding, period pain Side effects: Can cause nausea, headaches, or stomach issues Who it may suit: Those avoiding hormones or trying to conceive

2. Hormonal Medicines

   These include:

   The combined oral contraceptive pill

   Hormonal coils (IUD)

   Contraceptive implants or injections

   These work by thinning the womb lining, reducing bleeding and cramping.

   Symptoms targeted: Heavy periods, pain Side effects: Can include mood changes, breakthrough bleeding, or weight gain Who it may suit: Those who do not want to conceive

3. GnRH Agonists (Temporary Menopause)

   These injections switch off ovary function, triggering a temporary menopause. This can shrink Adenomyosis tissue but comes with side effects like hot flushes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. Often used short-term, sometimes with HRT.

   Symptoms targeted: Severe pain, heavy bleeding Side effects: Menopause-like symptoms Who it may suit: Short-term use before surgery or to confirm diagnosis

4. Uterine Artery Embolisation (UAE)

   A procedure that blocks blood flow to the affected area, causing adenomyosis tissue to shrink. Performed under local anaesthetic by a specialist.

   Symptoms targeted: Heavy periods, pain Side effects: Cramping, post-procedure pain, infection risk Who it may suit:Those avoiding major surgery or preserving fertility

5. Hysterectomy (Womb Removal)

   This is the only way to fully remove Adenomyosis. It's usually recommended only when other treatments haven’t helped and symptoms are severe.

   Symptoms targeted: All Adenomyosis symptoms Side effects: Permanent loss of fertility, surgical risks Who it may suit: People with chronic symptoms, who don't want to get pregnant or have completed their families

At-Home Symptom Support

In addition to GP prescribed treatments, you can use a variety of other products and services to help manage your symptoms at home. These can include:

• Heat and cold therapy (pads, patches, baths)

• TENS machines

• Pelvic floor physiotherapy

• Apps to track symptoms and cycle changes

• Private pain clinics