Adenomyosis is vastly different from endometriosis (a disorder wherein the endometrial lining of the uterus gets implanted outside the uterus). On the other hand, those having adenomyosis often have endometriosis. Adenomyosis is characterized by severe menstrual cramps and heavy bleeding; and usually disappears after menopause. Although most doctors recommend hysterectomy, there are a host of natural cures and home remedies that help alleviate the symptoms successfully.
What is Uterine Adenomyosis?
Uterine Adenomyosis Image |
The cause is not yet known. Probable etiological factors include:
- Experts suppose that adenomyosis occurs due to an infiltration of the endometrial cells from the uterine surface into the muscle of the uterine wall. Incisions made during a surgery such as a cesarean section is known to encourage invasion of the endometrial cells into the muscle wall.
- Some hypothesize that adenomyosis may originate in the uterine muscle from endometrial tissue that may have got deposited when the uterus developed within the fetus.
- Inflammation of the lining of the uterus during the post-partum phase can trigger a breach in the normal border of cells that line the uterus.
Adenomyosis depends up on the presence of the hormone estrogen in the body. At menopause, when the production of the hormone reduces, adenomyosis tends to go away.
Adenomyosis Symptoms
Adenomyosis is typified by:
- Heavy and / or protracted bleeding during the period. Bleeding in between mensus may also be common. Blood clots may be passed during the periods.
- Severe, agonizing and excruciating menstrual cramps. Cramps tend to worsen with age
- Pain during intercourse
- You may notice that the lower abdomen feels bulky or feels tender
- Occasionally, adenomyosis may be asymptomatic
Risk factors associated with adenomyosis are:
- Childbirth
- Having had a uterine surgery, such as a Caesarean section
- Middle age
Natural Treatment and Yoga for Adenomyosis
There are some natural treatment options for the management of adenomyosis of the uterus,
- Soak in a warm bath before and during the period; heat will help allay the menstrual cramps significantly.
- Use a heating pad on the abdomen.
- Aromatherapy is excellent for the management of the distressing menstrual cramps. Marjoram essential oil and Clary Sage essential oil are beneficial for the pain and discomfort associated with adenomyosis. Use repeated hot compresses of these essential oils over the abdomen.
Furthermore, experts also advise exercising on a regular basis; exercise can help suppress and decrease the symptoms of adenomyosis to a very great extent. Yoga Asanas such as Bhujangasana, Adho Mukhasana Supta Badhha Konasana and Utthita Anguli Sukhasana have been recommended time and again for severe menstrual cramps. Practice these everyday for 20 minutes; do not practice during your periods.
Home Remedies to Treat Uterine Adenomyosis
There are certain home remedies that can be useful in management of uterine adenomyosis,
- Ginger:have a glass of ginger tea one week before your period and during the period. Ginger is packed with compounds known as gingerols; gingerols are powerful anti oxidants that help decrease inflammation and consequently, help manage the pain. Boil about 1 inch of ginger in a glass of water and consume.
- Turmeric:turmeric too is an excellent anti inflammatory food. Turmeric has curcumin that works as a potent anti inflammatory agent. Boil 1 spoon of powdered turmeric in a glass of milk and consume every morning during your menses.