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- Patient Comments: Uterine Growths - Symptoms
- Patient Comments: Uterine Growths - Treatments
- Patient Comments: Uterine Growths - Polyps
- Patient Comments: Uterine Growths - Adenomyosis
- Find a local Obstetrician-Gynecologist in your town
- What are uterine growths?
- What are uterine fibroids?
- What are the symptoms of uterine fibroids and what do they look like?
- How are uterine fibroids diagnosed?
- What is the treatment for uterine fibroids?
- Surgery for uterine fibroids
- Other medical treatment for uterine fibroids
- What are the complications of uterine fibroids?
- What is adenomyosis?
- What are the symptoms of adenomyosis and what does it look like?
- How is adenomyosis diagnosed?
- How is adenomyosis treated?
- What are uterine polyps?
- What are the symptoms of uterine polyps and what do they look like?
- How are uterine polyps diagnosed and treated?
Quick GuideWomen's Health Pictures Slideshow: A Visual Guide to Uterine Fibroids
How is adenomyosis diagnosed?
The true diagnosis of adenomyosis is only possible with actual microscopic examination of uterine tissue. This means that it is ultimately diagnosed after hysterectomy. Sometimes the results of a physical examination and/or ultrasound examination may suggest the presence of adenomyosis.
How is adenomyosis treated?
Pain medications are used to relieve the cramping pain of adenomyosis. Currently, the only effective treatment for adenomyosis is a hysterectomy, meaning removal of the uterus. This requires a recovery period and carries the risk of surgery and anesthesia, as described previously. The decision as to whether or not to have a hysterectomy depends on the severity of the symptoms and the overall health of the patient. Controlling the menstrual cycle through hormonal contraception (the pill) or use of other hormones may provide some symptom relief.
What are uterine polyps?
Polyps of the uterus are benign overgrowths, or bulges, of the normal tissue lining the uterus into the uterine cavity. Polyps may also be found in the uterine cervix. Polyps are usually attached to the underlying tissue by a base or stalk, and they vary in size. Polyps only rarely contain cancerous cells. They are most common in women in their 40's and are rare in women under 20 years of age.
What are the symptoms of uterine polyps and what do they look like?
Uterine polyps may not produce any symptoms. However, some women may experience:
- Irregular vaginal bleeding
- Bleeding after intercourse
- Heavy menstrual bleeding