Uterine adenomyosis
Hello, doctor.
I have been experiencing continuous menstrual bleeding for almost three months, and my blood levels have reached a dangerous level.
After receiving six blood transfusions, I underwent a curettage for adenomyosis.
After the surgery, I was prescribed uterotonics and birth control pills.
Initially, my menstruation completely stopped for about a week, but then I started having abnormal bleeding again, which is quite heavy.
It seems that when I have uterine pain, the bleeding decreases, but when there is no pain, the flow is like a faucet.
I am hesitant to take the uterotonics prescribed by the doctor because they are very painful.
I would like to ask if my surgery was in vain since there has been no improvement.
Is it necessary to completely remove my uterus to resolve this issue? My uterine biopsy report is normal.
I hope the doctor can provide more advice, as I am also considering a hysterectomy.
Xiao Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/02/08
Dr. Xu Junzheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
You should undergo a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure, which generally only provides temporary control of bleeding.
If medication treatment is not effective, surgical intervention should indeed be considered.
Thank you!
Reply Date: 2006/02/08
More Info
Uterine adenomyosis is a condition where the tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus (the endometrium) grows into the muscular wall of the uterus. This can lead to various symptoms, including heavy menstrual bleeding, severe menstrual cramps, and chronic pelvic pain. In your case, it seems that you have undergone a surgical procedure to address the adenomyosis, but you are still experiencing significant complications, including prolonged bleeding and pain.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that while surgical interventions like dilation and curettage (D&C) can provide temporary relief from symptoms, they may not always resolve the underlying issue of adenomyosis. The condition is often chronic and can be challenging to manage. The fact that you are experiencing heavy bleeding again after a brief period of improvement suggests that the adenomyosis may not have been fully addressed by the surgery.
Regarding your concerns about the effectiveness of the surgery, it’s not uncommon for patients to feel frustrated when they do not see immediate or complete relief from their symptoms. The recurrence of heavy bleeding and pain can be disheartening, especially after undergoing a procedure that was intended to alleviate these issues. It’s essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your ongoing symptoms. They can help determine whether further intervention is necessary.
In some cases, a hysterectomy (complete removal of the uterus) may be recommended, especially if other treatments have failed and the symptoms are significantly impacting your quality of life. A hysterectomy can provide definitive relief from adenomyosis, as it removes the tissue that is causing the symptoms. However, this decision should be made carefully, considering your overall health, age, desire for future fertility, and personal preferences.
As for the medications you are taking, including uterotonics and hormonal contraceptives, it’s crucial to discuss any side effects or concerns with your doctor. If you are experiencing significant pain with the uterotonics, it may be worth exploring alternative options or adjusting the dosage. Pain management is an important aspect of treating adenomyosis, and your healthcare provider can help you find a regimen that works for you.
In addition to surgical options, there are other treatments available for managing adenomyosis. These may include hormonal therapies, such as birth control pills, progestins, or GnRH agonists, which can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce bleeding. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may also be recommended to help manage pain.
In conclusion, while your current surgical intervention may not have provided the relief you were hoping for, it does not mean that all is lost. It’s essential to maintain an open dialogue with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and treatment options. If you are considering a hysterectomy, ensure that you fully understand the implications and benefits of the procedure. Remember that managing adenomyosis often requires a multifaceted approach, and there are various strategies available to help improve your quality of life.
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