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Adenomyosis vs Endometriosis

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

  • Stress management

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.

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