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Adenomyosis and Endometriosis are like sister diseases, there are heaps of similarities - even up to the pathogenesis and development of the disease. However, they are actually different conditions and a few unlucky individuals have been diagnosed with both!
The main difference in the Adenomyosis grows within the muscle tissue of the uterus, and can create a "bulky uterus" as the fibrotic tissues builds on itself.
Endometriosis can extend from the surface of the uterus to literally any tissue within the body. Endometriosis tissue has been identified on lungs, ovaries, heart, intestinal tissue and more.
What are the similarities?
Dysmenorrhea (painful cramps)
Metrorrhagia (long bleeds, 7+ days)
Heavy bleeding
Pain with urination or bowel movements
Infertility (structural and via oxidative stress damage)
Mental health concerns: depression, anxiety, fatigue
Both are oestrogen driven
*Some individuals are asymptomatic
What are the differences?
Endo: lesional growth external to the uterus
Endo: pain in other locations in a cyclical manner
Endo: pain on ovulation
Endo: IBS and gut symptoms are highly common
Endo: pain with sex
Endo: usually diagnosed via laproscopy and ultrasound doesn't pick it up
Adeno: mainly pain with periods
Adeno: excessive bloating or swelling of the uterus
Adeno: easily seen on ultrasound
What do we know about the triggering factors:
Endocrine disrupting chemical exposure (even in utero)
Genetics and environmental factors
Dysbiosis creating excessive LPS production = inflammation
Immune dysregulation (excessive cytokines and histamine)
Possible history of trauma (both emotional and physical - including uterine implants or intra-uterine surgery)
Changes to pain sensitivity
Poor diet (excess red meat, high GI, alcohol, stress)
Pain processes worsens the growth of both conditions
Luckily there's enough similarities that the treatment process (from a naturopathic perspective) can be almost the same. Most of the what I work through with clients is correcting or managing the triggering factors, which can often take months, and the other part on pain management.
But, what can you do at home?
Increase your consumption of fruit & vegetables
High fiber intake
Mediterranean diet
PUFA intake (healthy fats - omega 3's)
Vitamin A & C intake (think dark green, orange, yellow and red produce)
Regular exercise
Check my Endometriosis Nutrition Guide for more here.
There is much more we can do at a practitioner level, but it's case dependant so come say hi!
You can book your initials to begin your Endo or Adeno journey with me here.
*Note I am on maternity leave from the 24th of July 2023 - DM me for further support.