How is endometriosis different from adenomyosis?

Endometriosis is when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, commonly on pelvic organs and peritoneal surfaces. It often causes pelvic pain, painful periods, pain with sex, and sometimes bowel or bladder symptoms. Adenomyosis is when that tissue grows into the muscle wall of the uterus itself, which more often causes heavy or prolonged bleeding, intense cramping, and a uterus that can feel enlarged and tender.

These conditions can occur together, and when they do, symptoms may feel more severe and fertility can be affected in more than one way. Because adenomyosis is centered in the uterus, it’s often evaluated using characteristic findings on pelvic imaging and managed with treatments focused on the uterus. Endometriosis is confirmed and treated by directly identifying and removing disease, most effectively with excision. If you’re sorting out which one fits your symptoms (or whether you may have both), our team can review your history and imaging and help you make a clear plan.