Globular uterus. Ball-shaped uterus: an atypical shape of the reproductive organ

Adenomyosis is defined as a disease caused by heterotopic growth of the glands and stroma of the endometrium - the lining of the uterus, which is shed monthly during a woman's menstruation. Although the disease is generally considered to be a benign process, cellular activity and progression often lead to pain and termination of normal pregnancy. In addition, if adenomyosis is allowed to develop for a long time, the most terrible consequence can develop - infertility. One of the most important studies in diagnosing adenomyosis is ultrasound, which can provide basic information about the development of the pathology.

Adenomyosis is a common disease. Frequent companions of this pathology are leiomyomas and hyperplastic processes (proliferation) of the endometrium. In terms of frequency of occurrence, adenomyosis ranks third after inflammatory processes and uterine leiomyoma.

Adenomyosis is one of the stages of endometriosis. According to the place of development of endometriosis, there is the following classification: genital and extragenital. The genital form, in turn, depending on the location, can be internal or external.

External endometriosis affects the following:

  • parts of the cervix and body of the uterus,
  • retrocervical area,
  • the fallopian tubes,
  • vagina,
  • ovaries,
  • sheets of peritoneum,
  • douglas space.

The internal one targets the body of the uterus or the supravaginal part of the cervix.

Most domestic doctors, following Western researchers, are inclined to believe that internal endometriosis is adenomyosis. The famous authors of the widespread classification of endometriosis B.I. Zheleznov and his colleague A.N. Strizhakov believe that adenomyosis is only the 2nd and 3rd degree of the internal form of endometriosis. Such degrees are characterized by hyperplastic processes of muscle tissue, as well as foci of endometrial invasion into myometrial tissue.

There is also a classification of adenomyosis. Adenomyosis is divided into:

  • diffuse (spreading throughout the endometrium),
  • focal,
  • nodal.

Reasons for development

The cause of endometrial tissue pathologies, including adenomyosis, is uncertain, but several theories have been put forward. A common theory is the implantation of separated endometrial cells during retrograde reflux of menstrual blood through the fallopian tubes.

Other theories suggest metaplasia of the peritoneal mesothelium or spread by hematogenous and lymphatic routes. Genetic factors may also play a role, given the concordance of endometriosis in monozygotic twins. Much research has been carried out in search of a definitive cause of the disease, and such research is still ongoing.

Risk factors

Risk factors for the development of adenomyosis include increased levels of estrogen in the blood, early onset of menstruation, their abundance and increased duration (more than 8 days according to modern data), operations on the uterus and appendages, the influence of an unfavorable environmental situation, smoking, obesity, prolonged stress, immune disorders systems.

There are studies that prove the presence of pathological contractility of uterine myocytes with adenomyosis, which indicates a possible genetic predisposition to this disease.

Endometriosis and its symptoms are directly related to cyclical hormonal stimulation and are therefore only considered in women of reproductive age. Women who underwent bilateral oophorectomy and rapid and complete removal of ectopic endometrioid tissue experienced resolution or significant improvement in symptoms. Natural menopause also brings gradual relief from symptoms. Without cyclic hormonal stimulation by the ovary, bleeding from ectopic lesions stops, which leads to a decrease in symptoms.

Symptoms

Symptoms of adenomyosis include:

  • pain of varying intensity in the lower abdomen and lumbar region,
  • worse during menstruation,
  • premenstrual syndrome,
  • painful sexual intercourse,
  • painful bowel movement,
  • spotting “chocolate” discharge after and before menstruation.

Adenomyosis is often accompanied by infertility, which is associated with the presence of resistance to progesterone and decreased endometrial receptivity in such patients.

Diagnostics

Bimanual examination

To diagnose this pathology, a bimanual examination is used. With this method, the doctor places one hand on the stomach and the other in the vagina. Such an examination makes it possible to determine the increase in the size of the uterus, and also, quite often, poor mobility that develops due to the adhesive process.

Inspection in the mirrors

An examination in the mirrors on a chair can provide the doctor with information about the presence of endometrioid lesions in the vagina and on the surface of the vaginal part of the cervix.

Ultrasound diagnostics

Based on the symptoms identified during questioning and the initial examination, the gynecologist may refer the patient for an ultrasound of the pelvic organs. Moreover, if there is reason to believe that a woman has adenomyosis, it is better to perform a dynamic ultrasound on the 8-10th and 20-24th days of the cycle to assess changes in the structure of the myometrium and endometrium, preferably a transvaginal examination.

Preparation - cleansing the intestines on the eve of the study, it is advisable not to eat gas-forming foods (legumes, fresh cabbage, etc.) the day before.

When the first (initial) stage of internal endometriosis is detected, the uterus may be slightly enlarged on ultrasound; small cystic inclusions up to 2-3 mm in diameter can be detected in the projection of the uterine walls. Cystic formations can affect the structure of the myometrium: it becomes heterogeneous. In this case, echogenicity increases slightly.

An ultrasound scan may reveal a round, spherical shape of the uterus. This occurs because the anteroposterior size of the uterus increases and becomes more than 45 mm. In addition, ultrasound may reveal that the ratio of length to thickness of the uterine body increases to 1-1.1.

When stage 2 or 3 of adenomyosis occurs, the muscular wall of the uterus is damaged towards the serous layer. This indicates diffuse damage to the uterus, in which the following symptoms may be observed:

  • characteristic echo pattern of myometrial heterogeneity like a “honeycomb”;
  • asymmetry of the thickness of the uterine walls;
  • the linear striation of the median M-echo and the blurring of its contour are visualized;
  • thickening of the uterine connective zone more than 12 mm;
  • increased size of the uterus;
  • the echogenicity of the layers of the uterus closest to the sensor increases significantly, which makes inspection of the underlying uterine wall not the easiest task;
  • the size of the uterus is increased;
  • a large number of linear stripes of medium and low echogenicity that run perpendicular to the scanning plane (such stripes diverge in a fan shape from the ultrasound sensor).

The nodular variety has the shape of a round formation. Such formations do not have very clear contours and are hyperechoic, which is caused by the absence of a connective tissue capsule.

The heterogeneous structure of the uterus is caused by cystic inclusions of an anechoic and hypoechoic nature, which have a diameter of 2-6 mm. The uterine wall affected by adenomyosis is thicker than the healthy one. With focal lesions, the area of ​​the myometrium altered by adenomyosis contains several endometrioid nodes, often with cystic inclusions.

Ultrasound picture in Doppler mode

In order to assess the condition of the uterine vessels, doctors use color Doppler mode. This scan allows you to see the blood flow in the organ being examined. Doppler ultrasound can also help detect signs of adenomyosis.

With adenomyosis, Doppler mapping can detect a slight increase in vascular resistance and increased blood flow in tissues affected by the disease. . In addition, the vascular resistance index in the affected areas will be from 0.45 to 1.0. The adenomyosis inclusions themselves are not penetrated by vessels.

Possible diagnostic errors

Differential diagnosis of adenomyosis is not an easy matter. In this regard, errors often occur when diagnosing adenomyosis, due to the fact that its symptoms can imitate the signs of other diseases.

For example, myomatous nodes can be confused with endometrial tissues located in unusual places for them. The former may be favored by the specific “bending around” of the node by the feeding vessel in the CDC or EDC mode. In addition, the pathology of the endometrium in this case can be indicated by the relative immutability of the structure of the fibroids, which is revealed during regular examinations during the menstrual cycle, and the clarity of its contours.

Also, endometriosis (internal, diffuse form) can be visually confused with metroendometritis, in which swelling of the myometrium and changes in the echographic characteristics of its structure and the structure of the M-echo are also observed. However, with metroendometritis there will be characteristic clinical symptoms and laboratory test data.

The nodular form of adenomyosis may resemble the structure of uterine sarcoma, however, this formation has characteristic hypervascularization in the CD mode with a low-resistant type of blood flow. Arteriovenous anomaly of the uterus can be distinguished from adenomyosis using Doppler mapping. In this case, pathological vascular cavities will be displayed by color loci with a turbulent appearance of blood flow with a high systolic velocity.

The effectiveness of sonographic diagnosis of adenomyosis directly depends on the following: the qualifications of the doctor, the choice of scanning method, and the correct assessment of the formed clinical picture.

Often, diagnostic difficulties that arise during a single visit to the ultrasound diagnostic room are resolved by monitoring over time: visits to the ultrasound diagnostic room throughout the menstrual cycle.

In this case, signs of endometrial pathologies can be assessed more effectively and with greater accuracy.

An ultrasound doctor performing an examination on a woman with suspected adenomyosis must know the clinical symptoms of all possible gynecological diseases and have information about the echographic picture of internal endometriosis in order to avoid possible errors and loss of time for the patient and her attending physician.

Adenomyosis on echograms

Collapse

The accelerated rhythm of modern life draws a woman into a whirlpool of events, affairs, and interests. In this bustle, representatives of the fair sex do not always pay due attention to the state of their women's health. Without noticing the signs of many diseases, for a woman the diagnosis of a globular uterus may sound like a bolt from the blue. And although this phenomenon is by no means uncommon - it occurs in 70% of women who have crossed the thirty-year mark - not everyone imagines the features and scale of such a pathology.

What is a globular uterus?

Ball-shaped uterus - what is it? Alternative names for the pathology are adenomyosis, internal genital endometriosis. It is a pathology of the female reproductive organ, in which endometriosis grows into other uterine zones. In particular, this process can form in the area of ​​the uterus itself (ovaries, vagina, fallopian membranes) and outside it (lungs, intestines, urinary tract, sometimes in postoperative wounds).

Ball-shaped uterus - pathology of the female reproductive organ

The norm is that the endometrium grows exclusively into the uterine cavity. With adenomyosis, the endometrium gradually penetrates the muscular wall of the organ.

By the way. The endometrium “populates” the uterine wall not everywhere, but locally, i.e. in some places. For comparison purposes, you can imagine seedlings planted in a cardboard box. When the seedlings have not been planted in the ground for a long time, the root system of the plants will gradually begin to grow through the cracks of the box. By the same principle, the endometrium penetrates the wall of the uterus.

The uterus itself does not remain inactive - it reacts to an uninvited invasion. As a result, individual areas of muscle tissue around the enlarged endometrium thicken. In this way, the uterus tries to stop further pathological growth. Gradually, following the muscle, the uterus itself enlarges, eventually becoming round in shape.

Causes

Atypical growth of endometrial cells can be caused by the following reasons:

  • Various surgical interventions (caesarean section, abortion, curettage) contribute to the destruction of the internal septum of the uterus. As a result, the endometrium is able to freely droop into the organ cavity.
  • Disturbances in the intrauterine development of the reproductive system of the female embryo.
  • Malfunctions of the endocrine system.
  • Weak opening of the cervix during menstruation. At this moment, endometrial cells are under pressure, which causes its penetration into the wall of the uterus, and then into the peritoneal cavity.
  • Adenomyosis often becomes a companion for women who love excessive sunbathing and visiting a solarium;
  • Allergic reactions, infectious diseases, liver pathologies - all signs indicating low immunity can cause adenomyosis.
  • Stress, nervous shock, as well as a sedentary lifestyle can provoke stagnant processes in the pelvis. For this reason, compactions form in the uterus, and adenomyosis begins.

The mechanism of pathology development

As a rule, during menstruation, excess endometrium begins to be rejected by the body. And if the uterus has the ability to remove “unusable” tissues, then other organs susceptible to adenomyosis do not have this opportunity. As a result, they swell and put pressure on the nerve endings, causing acute pain.

Heavy monthly bleeding is explained by the fact that the amount of excess uterine lining increases with adenomyosis. Subsequently, this “ballast” is thrown directly into the uterine cavity and provokes an increase in the volume of discharge.

Pain during menstruation becomes especially acute in the first day - this means that the rounded uterus is trying to get rid of excess endometrium. Depending on the location of the uterus, pain can be felt in different parts of the body. So, if the endometrium has spread in one of the uterine angles, the discomfort will be localized in the groin area. The affected cervix will make itself felt by pain in the area of ​​the rectum or vagina.

Symptoms of the anomaly

A spherical uterus does not always make its presence known in the female body. Sometimes the pathology is asymptomatic, and a woman may not even be aware of the presence of problems with the shape of the reproductive organ. However, in advanced cases, the following alarming symptoms may appear:

  • Heavy bleeding during menstruation. A very characteristic sign of adenomyosis. In addition to the completely natural feeling of discomfort about this, a woman runs the risk of developing anemia, which is fraught with subsequent complications. Women with advanced stages of adenomyosis are especially at risk.
  • Brownish spotting between periods. Some women mistake them for the beginning of menstruation. But such a discharge can cause anemia.
  • Painful sensations during intimacy. Otherwise, this not the most pleasant phenomenon is called dyspareunia. This circumstance often becomes the cause of physiological and psychological problems in the intimate life of sexual partners. Pain during sex is one of the most common reasons that brings a woman to see a gynecologist.
  • Pain immediately before, during and after the end of menstruation. Many women consider pain before and during menstruation to be an absolutely normal, typical phenomenon. This position is fundamentally wrong. Pain, especially sharp and prolonged pain, is a serious reason to consult a specialist.
  • Disruptions in the menstrual cycle. Usually with adenomyosis it becomes shorter than usual.
  • During a gynecological examination, the doctor diagnoses an enlarged uterus. This can easily be detected by palpation of the uterus by a gynecologist.

Important! Very often, the symptoms of adenomyosis are confused with manifestations of other gynecological diseases. To exclude all possible unfavorable options and diagnose pathology, you must immediately contact a gynecologist if you discover one or more alarming signs.

Diagnosis of a globular uterus

Ultrasound is considered the main method for diagnosing adenomyosis. Using this study, the size of the reproductive organ, its structure, the boundaries of the endometrium and myometrium are determined. Also, a similar method allows you to determine the degree of germination of the mucous membrane into the uterus. The accuracy of the results is about 90%.

An examination by a gynecologist can also confirm that the patient has a round uterus. The size of the organ varies from normal to atypical (corresponding to 6-8 weeks of gestation). The surface of the organ is uneven, touching certain places can cause pain.

For a more accurate diagnosis, a hysteroscopy procedure can be used. Its essence is the introduction of a specialized device into the uterine cavity. In this case, the walls of the organ are visualized from the inside and the doctor has the opportunity to assess the extent of the pathology, take a tissue sample for a biopsy, or carry out therapeutic measures (cauterization of inflammation, removal of polyps, etc.).

Colposcopy is one of the methods for diagnosing and treating adenomyosis

In some cases, the doctor hesitates in making a diagnosis, since adenomyosis is similar in symptoms to uterine fibroids. To finally verify the correctness of the diagnosis, the patient may be sent for a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedure.

Treatment methods for adenomyosis

According to medical research, the shape of the uterus and the ability to get pregnant are not directly related. In other words, adenomyosis itself is not considered a cause of infertility. But often the germination of the endometrium is accompanied by additional complications (fibroids or endometriosis), which can become an obstacle to the desired pregnancy. Cured adenomyosis increases the possibility of conception by 30-60%. If there are no complications throughout the pregnancy, a woman with a spherical uterus can safely give birth naturally. The only complication may be the risk of uterine bleeding.

Treatment of a uterus that has taken on an atypical shape is carried out in the following ways:

  • Taking hormonal drugs. With their help, an artificial menopause is created. Upon completion of the treatment course, there is a risk of re-growth of the endometrium. Therefore, the doctor selects hormonal medications for the patient with the optimal dosage for continuous use. Modern treatments of this type cause virtually no damage to the female body.
  • Embolization of the uterine arteries. Helps improve blood circulation in organ tissues.
  • Surgical intervention. It is recommended to eliminate the affected tissue areas, nodes, or the entire organ as a whole.

Possible consequences, complications

Adenomyosis that is not detected and treated in time can lead to unpleasant consequences and provoke complications in the functioning of the reproductive organs. In particular, the consequences may be as follows:

  • Iron-deficiency anemia;
  • development of endometriosis into a malignant tumor;
  • infertility.

Adenomyosis can cause infertility

Adenomyosis is a serious pathology of the female reproductive system. To prevent uterine deformation and further problems, a woman needs to carefully monitor her reproductive health. Regular visits to the gynecologist, proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle are mandatory.

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Endometriosis of the uterine body

Based on ultrasound morphology, diffuse (adenomyosis) and local forms are distinguished.

Diffuse form of endometriosis: the uterus is enlarged up to 5-9 weeks of pregnancy, spherical in shape. Before and during menstruation, the size of the uterus increases compared to those in the intermenstrual period. The contours of the uterus are always clear and even. The spherical configuration of the uterus is the main symptom of adenomyosis.

Myometrial structure May be:

  1. normal (small endometriotic inclusions are not visualized during echolocation)
  2. heterogeneous due to echo-positive inclusions of a point or linear shape (depending on localization in the plane of the ultrasound section), 1-5 mm in size (endometrioid heterotopias and areas of local fibrosis), diffusely located throughout the thickness of all walls.

Myometrial echodensity average (normally it is low) - compare the echo density of the body with the cervix. An increase in the echo density of the endometrium is due to the presence of foci of endometriosis. There may be a decrease in the intensity of the image of the uterus before menstruation due to vasodilatation and the phenomenon of edema in the area of ​​endometriotic heterotopias.

With transvaginal ultrasound, especially in young patients with a short duration of the disease, diffusely dilated convoluted vessels, reminiscent of varicose veins, can be seen in the uterine wall. The same changes can occur with very pronounced activity of the pathological process.

Endometrium- expressed to a greater extent than it should be according to the duration of the menstrual cycle due to glandular hyperplasia, which in adenomyosis occurs without pathological transformation of the mucosal glands, and is accompanied only by an increase in their volume and number.

Ovaries- not enlarged, normal echostructure

Bladder- may be deformed from the pressure of the enlarged uterus on it. In isolated forms of endometriosis, the uterine body has no changes in the retrouterine and retrocervical spaces.

Control ultrasound during the treatment of adenomyosis: under the influence of drug treatment of endometriosis, the size of the uterus and the density of its tissue are significantly reduced, but the spherical shape remains unchanged. The positive dynamics of the course of adenomyosis is accompanied by significant clinical improvements, up to the complete disappearance of pain. This picture is typical for highly differentiated foci of endometriosis.

The lack of effectiveness of conservative treatment measures, significant progression of the pathological process with deterioration of all clinical indicators indicates the presence of poorly differentiated foci of endometriosis that are not amenable to hormone therapy. In this case, surgical treatment is indicated.

Ultrasound data of adenomyosis in other age periods

Teenage, youthful (from 12 to 20 years old)- the uterus may not be enlarged or enlarged slightly (up to 4-5 weeks). Often there is no change in the structure of the myometrium and no increase in its density. In young patients, the structure of the walls is usually normal, and the echo soundness may be reduced due to the predominance of vascular and muscular reactions, or normal. But a diffuse increase in the density of the uterine walls may be observed with its echostructure unchanged. In this case, a specific sign of adenomyosis is always present - globularity of the uterus.

During puberty during the initial phases of the disease, in the presence of an appropriate clinic, echographic symptoms of the disease may be completely absent (ultrasound-negative form of endometriosis). In the absence of specific treatment, the disease progresses with varying intensity of increase in subjective and objective manifestations, which can subsequently be recorded using ultrasound.

Menopause- the uterus decreases in size, but remains spherical.

Variants of echo picture of adenomyosis

  1. Ultrasound-negative phase
  2. There is no increase in the size of the uterus, but its shape is spherical or close to it; the structure of the myometrium is not changed, echo density may be reduced or normal
  3. Enlargement of the uterus is insignificant or absent in the presence of a spherical shape and increased myometrial density in all parts
  4. The uterus is spherical, enlarged from 4-5 to 6-7 weeks of pregnancy, the structure of the myometrium is homogeneous, its density is increased (medium, less often high)
  5. In addition to the indicated signs and more pronounced enlargement of the uterus (up to 9 weeks of pregnancy), evenly spaced multiple small echo-positive inclusions are located in the thickness of the myometrium
  6. Reverse development of pathological changes during menopause

Differential diagnosis

It is carried out with diseases and conditions accompanied by an increase in the size of the uterus: metroendometritis, diffuse form of fibroids, diffuse form of endometriosis, normal variant.

Note: Some increase in the size of the uterus can also occur in healthy tall women (large uterus), as well as before menstruation, after repeated births, in the presence of an intrauterine contraceptive device, with retroflexio or saddle-shaped uterus.

Unlike endometriosis, in the first four cases the uterus retains its normal shape (oval or pear-shaped), and the density of the myometrium is regarded as low. It should be noted that with a pronounced bend, the size of the uterus may be larger than normal, and the shape approaches spherical. In such observations, the fact of a diffuse increase in myometrial density in adenomyosis and the absence of clinical manifestations of this disease in other conditions plays a decisive role.

In addition, 60-70% of women with diffuse endometriosis of the uterus have glandular endometrial hyperplasia to varying degrees.

Algorithm for differential diagnosis of adenomyosis, diffuse form of fibroids and metroendometritis

Algorithm elements Adenomyosis Diffuse form of fibromyoma Metroendometritis
Clinic Algomenorrhea Typically asymptomatic Signs of a septic condition, constant pain in the lower abdomen, spotting
Sonographic characteristics of the uterus
Dimensions Increased Increased Increased
Solitary tumor nodes No No No
Form Regular spherical Irregular oval or pear-shaped, but with obligatory predominance of the longitudinal size over the diameter Regular oval or pear-shaped
Circuit Smooth Wavy or finely lumpy Flat or wavy
Pathological changes in the myometrium
Localization Diffuse in all departments In one or several parts of the uterus (focal nature of the lesion), less often - in all parts of the walls No
Structure The degree of myometrial dispersion is increased due to multiple echo-positive inclusions of medium density, linear and point form Multiple poorly defined zones where the myometrium loses its characteristic fine structure. Pathological foci are heterogeneous tissue of the spotted and glomerular type, low density
Total echo density Promoted In the area of ​​pathological restructuring it is reduced No
Endometrium Often glandular endometrial hyperplasia Usually not changed Unchanged or sharply thickened due to inflammatory infiltrate. A small amount of fluid is located in the uterine cavity
Dynamic observation Positive dynamics under the influence of hormone therapy (not always) No dynamics.
Tumor progression.
Reversal during menopause.
Reversal of pathological changes as a result of anti-inflammatory treatment

Local form of endometriosis: characterized by the presence in the myometrium of one (most often) to 4 compactly located echo-positive inclusions of irregular round, oval or blocky shape, without an acoustic shadow in the myometrium behind the echo-positive focus (the presence of such a shadow is evidence of a calcified fibromatous node). Their sizes range from 2 to 6 mm in diameter.

There is no significant enlargement of the uterus or changes in its shape.

Echopoietic inclusions in the myometrium in the local form of endometriosis are areas of limited fibrosis that have developed around endometrioid heterotopias and, as long as menstrual cyclic transformations occur in them, they can increase in size and take on the appearance of small, clearly defined nodes of irregular shape.
The endometrium is not changed.

Note: echopositive inclusions of this form can also be observed in uterine fibroids, when the parenchymal component of the tumor is completely replaced by mature fibrous tissue. Only in women of the reproductive period this occurs extremely rarely. As a rule, a similar picture can be found in menopause, when the reverse development of long-existing fibroids occurs.

Cervical adenomyosis is a pathology that has special manifestations of the epidemic process, provoking factors and conditions for progression. This disease can cause uterine bleeding and severe pain in the lower abdomen, and often with this pathology low-grade body temperature is noted.

Experts speak about pathology only when the endometrium penetrates deep into the myometrium. Due to the fact that the endometrium begins to grow, the patient begins an inflammatory process (body temperature necessarily rises) and this organ enlarges, the shape becomes spherical.

Adenomyosis requires timely diagnosis (ultrasound is required) and treatment (carried out with medication or folk remedies, the Mirena spiral is used). If treatment for the disease is excluded, pregnancy may not occur. If possible, IVF pregnancy is carried out.

Adenomyosis of the uterus - what is it?

Cervical adenomyosis is a disease of the uterus in which the endometrium grows in other layers of the organ. This pathology is considered a special case of a systemic benign disease – endometriosis.

Due to the progression of the pathology, the patient experiences local inflammatory processes (increased body temperature is noted), and then degenerative changes that have a negative impact on the performance of the uterus, the organ being spherical in shape.

With adenomyosis, serious changes occur that lead to organ degeneration, so the possibility of becoming pregnant on your own is excluded; if possible, IVF is performed.

Kinds

The types of this pathology are divided into several forms, which depend on the size of the myometrium:



Many patients are often diagnosed with several types of this pathology at once. In such a situation, an integrated approach to treatment is required (drug therapy, Mirena spiral, folk remedies). If you do not get rid of the disease, pregnancy may not occur, so the patient may be recommended IVF.

Clinical picture

In the initial stages, the pathology practically does not make itself felt, so women very often turn to a specialist when the disease begins to progress intensively. Signs of uterine adenomyosis:

Very often, cervical adenomyosis occurs simultaneously with such pathologies as:

Pregnancy can occur after quality treatment; in many cases, the patient is offered IVF.

Causes

As for the provoking factors of adenomyosis, they have not been fully established. In most cases, this disease is considered a consequence of impaired immune function.

Risk factors include:



After this disease, most patients undergo IVF.

Diagnostics

As soon as the first symptoms of pathology appear, you should immediately contact a specialist and undergo additional examination. First of all, the gynecologist conducts an examination, asks about the manifestation of alarming symptoms, when they appeared and what their intensity is.

In most cases, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, hysterosalpingography, sonohysterography, and biopsy are prescribed to confirm the diagnosis. These types of examinations help determine the symptoms of the pathology and exclude other diseases with similar symptoms.

Differential diagnosis is carried out with such abnormalities of the uterus as:

  1. Myoma.
  2. Polyps.
  3. Hyperplasia.

Based on the research results, with the exclusion of other possible diseases, a diagnosis of adenomyosis is made.

Let's take a closer look at each type of examination:



Treatment is prescribed based on the examination results obtained. In this situation, you should not engage in independent therapy, as you can only aggravate the situation and worsen your well-being. As an additional treatment, you can use folk remedies, but only after prior consultation with a gynecologist.

Therapy

Treatment of the disease largely depends on the symptoms, which are clearly expressed in the patient. Therapy is carried out comprehensively, including mandatory drug treatment. A woman can be prescribed the following medications that will have a positive effect on the condition of the uterus:



In case of serious complications and intensive progression of the pathology, surgical intervention is performed, but this is in rare cases. They always try to treat the disease conservatively. Many patients prefer traditional medicine.

The most effective method is considered to be hirudotherapy, which has a positive effect on the general condition.

You can also use decoctions, herbal infusions and treatment with other folk remedies, but only as additional means of treating adenomyosis. If this disease is not treated, the patient will not be able to get pregnant, as there is a possible risk of infertility. The reasons for this deviation are varied. Sometimes, after treatment, a woman is given the opportunity to become pregnant only through IVF.

Prevention

Preventive methods include:



Pregnancy with adenomyosis

Adenomyosis is dangerous and can cause infertility. It is difficult to get pregnant after this pathology, but the patient can be offered IVF pregnancy. The mechanism of infertility development in this situation is different and therefore may have different prognoses, various treatments, including folk remedies.

The main causes of infertility with adenomyosis (some of them can be determined by ultrasound):

  1. Violation of the transport function of the fallopian tubes.
  2. Hormonal disorders that prevent ovulation.
  3. Autoimmune reactions.
  4. Early abortions.
  5. Painful sensations during sex, the causes of which must be established.

The diagnosis of infertility is made if pregnancy has not occurred for three or more years. In such a situation, a woman is offered an IVF pregnancy, during which an ultrasound is performed more often than usual to ensure the normal course of the process.

In most cases, infertility can be caused by many reasons at the same time, therefore, in order to restore reproductive function, you need to be treated for a long time.

An ultrasound scan is required and attention is paid to echo signs. The success of therapy will depend on the duration of the infertile period; if necessary, IVF is prescribed.

After successful treatment, a woman will be able to become pregnant, but there will be a possibility that the pregnancy may be terminated. If the patient is constantly under the supervision of a specialist and undergoes an ultrasound, then her condition will be stabilized and she will be able to bear a completely healthy baby.

In this situation, the birth proceeds safely, even if there was an IVF pregnancy, but afterward bleeding may occur, which can provoke complications of the disease. Anti-relapse treatment must be carried out, even sometimes with folk remedies.

– a disease in which the inner lining (endometrium) grows into the muscle tissue of the uterus. It is a type of endometriosis. It manifests itself as long, heavy menstruation, bleeding and brownish discharge during the intermenstrual period, severe PMS, pain during menstruation and during sex. Adenomyosis usually develops in patients of childbearing age and subsides after the onset of menopause. Diagnosed on the basis of a gynecological examination, the results of instrumental and laboratory tests. Treatment is conservative, surgical or combined.

General information

Adenomyosis is the growth of the endometrium into the underlying layers of the uterus. Usually affects women of reproductive age, most often occurring after 27-30 years. Sometimes it is congenital. It fades away on its own after menopause. It is the third most common gynecological disease after adnexitis and uterine fibroids and is often combined with the latter. Currently, gynecologists note an increase in the incidence of adenomyosis, which may be due to both an increase in the number of immune disorders and improved diagnostic methods.

Patients with adenomyosis often suffer from infertility, however, the direct connection between the disease and the inability to conceive and bear a child has not yet been precisely established; many experts believe that the cause of infertility is not adenomyosis, but concomitant endometriosis. Regular heavy bleeding can cause anemia. Severe PMS and intense pain during menstruation negatively affect the patient’s psychological state and can cause the development of neurosis. Treatment of adenomyosis is carried out by specialists in the field of gynecology.

Relationship between adenomyosis and endometriosis

Adenomyosis is a type of endometriosis, a disease in which endometrial cells multiply outside the lining of the uterus (in the fallopian tubes, ovaries, digestive, respiratory or urinary systems). Cell spread occurs by contact, lymphogenous or hematogenous route. Endometriosis is not a tumor disease, since heterotopically located cells retain their normal structure.

However, the disease can cause a number of complications. All cells of the inner lining of the uterus, regardless of their location, undergo cyclic changes under the influence of sex hormones. They multiply intensively and then are rejected during menstruation. This entails the formation of cysts, inflammation of surrounding tissues and the development of adhesions. The frequency of the combination of internal and external endometriosis is unknown, but experts suggest that most patients with uterine adenomyosis have heterotopic foci of endometrial cells in various organs.

Causes of adenomyosis

The reasons for the development of this pathology have not yet been precisely clarified. It has been established that adenomyosis is a hormone-dependent disease. The development of the disease is facilitated by impaired immunity and damage to the thin layer of connective tissue that separates the endometrium and myometrium and prevents the growth of the endometrium deep into the uterine wall. Damage to the separation plate is possible during abortion, diagnostic curettage, use of an intrauterine device, inflammatory diseases, childbirth (especially complicated ones), operations and dysfunctional uterine bleeding (especially after operations or during treatment with hormonal drugs).

Other risk factors for the development of adenomyosis associated with the activity of the female reproductive system include too early or too late the onset of menstruation, late onset of sexual activity, taking oral contraceptives, hormonal therapy and obesity, which leads to an increase in the amount of estrogen in the body. Risk factors for adenomyosis associated with immune disorders include poor environmental conditions, allergic diseases and frequent infectious diseases.

Some chronic diseases (diseases of the digestive system, hypertension), excessive or insufficient physical activity also have a negative impact on the state of the immune system and the general reactivity of the body. Unfavorable heredity plays a certain role in the development of adenomyosis. The risk of this pathology increases if you have close relatives suffering from adenomyosis, endometriosis and tumors of the female genital organs. Congenital adenomyosis is possible due to disturbances in intrauterine development of the fetus.

Classification of uterine adenomyosis

Taking into account the morphological picture, four forms of adenomyosis are distinguished:

  • Focal adenomyosis. Endometrial cells invade the underlying tissues, forming separate foci.
  • Nodular adenomyosis. Endometrial cells are located in the myometrium in the form of nodes (adenomyomas), shaped like fibroids. The nodes, as a rule, are multiple, contain cavities filled with blood, and are surrounded by dense connective tissue formed as a result of inflammation.
  • Diffuse adenomyosis. Endometrial cells invade the myometrium without forming clearly visible foci or nodes.
  • Mixed diffuse nodular adenomyosis. It is a combination of nodular and diffuse adenomyosis.

Taking into account the depth of penetration of endometrial cells, four degrees of adenomyosis are distinguished:

  • 1st degree– only the submucosal layer of the uterus suffers.
  • 2 degree– no more than half the depth of the muscular layer of the uterus is affected.
  • 3rd degree– more than half the depth of the muscular layer of the uterus is affected.
  • 4th degree– the entire muscle layer is affected, with possible spread to neighboring organs and tissues.

Symptoms of adenomyosis

The most characteristic sign of adenomyosis is long (over 7 days), painful and very heavy menstruation. Clots are often detected in the blood. Brownish spotting is possible 2-3 days before menstruation and 2-3 days after it ends. Intermenstrual uterine bleeding and brownish discharge in the middle of the cycle are sometimes observed. Patients with adenomyosis often suffer from severe premenstrual syndrome.

Another typical symptom of adenomyosis is pain. Pain usually occurs several days before the start of menstruation and stops 2-3 days after it begins. Features of the pain syndrome are determined by the localization and prevalence of the pathological process. The most severe pain occurs with damage to the isthmus and widespread adenomyosis of the uterus, complicated by multiple adhesions. When localized in the area of ​​the isthmus, the pain can radiate to the perineum; when located in the area of ​​the angle of the uterus, it can radiate to the left or right groin area. Many patients complain of pain during sexual intercourse, which intensifies on the eve of menstruation.

More than half of patients with adenomyosis suffer from infertility, which is caused by adhesions in the fallopian tubes, preventing the penetration of the egg into the uterine cavity, disturbances in the structure of the endometrium, complicating the implantation of the egg, as well as the accompanying inflammatory process, increased myometrial tone and other factors that increase the likelihood of spontaneous abortion . Patients may have a history of no pregnancy with regular sexual activity or multiple miscarriages.

Heavy menstruation with adenomyosis often entails the development of iron deficiency anemia, which can manifest itself as weakness, drowsiness, fatigue, shortness of breath, pale skin and mucous membranes, frequent colds, dizziness, fainting and presyncope. Severe PMS, long menstruation, constant pain during menstruation and deterioration of general condition due to anemia reduce the patient's resistance to psychological stress and can provoke the development of neuroses.

Clinical manifestations of the disease may not correspond to the severity and extent of the process. Grade 1 adenomyosis is usually asymptomatic. In grades 2 and 3, both an asymptomatic or low-symptomatic course and severe clinical symptoms can be observed. Grade 4 adenomyosis is usually accompanied by pain caused by widespread adhesions; the severity of other symptoms may vary.

During a gynecological examination, changes in the shape and size of the uterus are revealed. With diffuse adenomyosis, the uterus becomes spherical and increases in size on the eve of menstruation; with a widespread process, the size of the organ can correspond to 8-10 weeks of pregnancy. With nodular adenomyosis, tuberosity of the uterus or tumor-like formations in the walls of the organ are detected. When adenomyosis and fibroids are combined, the size of the uterus corresponds to the size of the fibroids, the organ does not shrink after menstruation, and other symptoms of adenomyosis usually remain unchanged.

Diagnosis of adenomyosis

The diagnosis of adenomyosis is established on the basis of anamnesis, the patient’s complaints, examination data on a chair and the results of instrumental studies. A gynecological examination is carried out on the eve of menstruation. The presence of an enlarged spherical uterus or tubercles or nodes in the uterine area in combination with painful, prolonged, heavy menstruation, pain during sexual intercourse and signs of anemia is the basis for a preliminary diagnosis of adenomyosis.

The main diagnostic method is ultrasound. The most accurate results (about 90%) are provided by transvaginal ultrasound scanning, which, like a gynecological examination, is performed on the eve of menstruation. Adenomyosis is evidenced by the enlargement and spherical shape of the organ, varying wall thickness and cystic formations larger than 3 mm that appear in the uterine wall shortly before menstruation. With diffuse adenomyosis, the effectiveness of ultrasound is reduced. The most effective diagnostic method for this form of the disease is hysteroscopy.

Hysteroscopy is also used to exclude other diseases, including fibroids and uterine polyposis, endometrial hyperplasia and malignant neoplasms. In addition, in the process of differential diagnosis of adenomyosis, MRI is used, during which it is possible to detect thickening of the uterine wall, disturbances in the structure of the myometrium and foci of endometrial penetration into the myometrium, as well as assess the density and structure of the nodes. Instrumental diagnostic methods for adenomyosis are complemented by laboratory tests (blood and urine tests, hormone tests), which make it possible to diagnose anemia, inflammatory processes and hormonal imbalances.

Treatment and prognosis for adenomyosis

Treatment of adenomyosis can be conservative, surgical or combined. Treatment tactics are determined taking into account the form of adenomyosis, the prevalence of the process, the age and health status of the patient, and her desire to preserve reproductive function. Initially, conservative therapy is carried out. Patients are prescribed hormonal drugs, anti-inflammatory drugs, vitamins, immunomodulators and agents to maintain liver function. Anemia is treated. In the presence of neurosis, patients with adenomyosis are referred to psychotherapy, tranquilizers and antidepressants are used.

If conservative therapy is ineffective, surgical interventions are performed. Surgeries for adenomyosis can be radical (panhysterectomy, hysterectomy, supravaginal amputation of the uterus) or organ-preserving (endocoagulation of endometriosis foci). Indications for endocoagulation in adenomyosis are endometrial hyperplasia, suppuration, the presence of adhesions that prevent the egg from entering the uterine cavity, lack of effect when treated with hormonal drugs for 3 months and contraindications to hormonal therapy. Indications for hysterectomy include progression of adenomyosis in patients over 40 years of age, ineffectiveness of conservative therapy and organ-preserving surgical interventions, diffuse adenomyosis of grade 3 or nodular adenomyosis in combination with uterine fibroids, and the threat of malignancy.

If adenomyosis is detected in a woman planning a pregnancy, she is recommended to attempt conception no earlier than six months after undergoing a course of conservative treatment or endocoagulation. During the first trimester, the patient is prescribed gestagens. The need for hormonal therapy in the second and third trimester of pregnancy is determined taking into account the result of a blood test for progesterone levels. Pregnancy is a physiological menopause, accompanied by profound changes in hormonal levels and has a positive effect on the course of the disease, reducing the rate of proliferation of heterotopic endometrial cells.

Adenomyosis is a chronic disease with a high probability of relapse. After conservative therapy and organ-preserving surgical interventions during the first year, relapses of adenomyosis are detected in every fifth woman of reproductive age. Within five years, recurrence is observed in more than 70% of patients. In premenopausal patients, the prognosis for adenomyosis is more favorable, which is due to the gradual decline of ovarian function. After panhysterectomy, relapses are impossible. During menopause, spontaneous recovery occurs.

Adenomyosis is defined as a disease caused by heterotopic growth of glands and stroma - the lining of the uterus, which is rejected monthly with. Although the disease is generally considered to be a benign process, cellular activity and progression often lead to pain and termination of normal pregnancy. In addition, if adenomyosis is allowed to develop for a long time, the most terrible consequence can develop - infertility. One of the most important studies in diagnosing adenomyosis is ultrasound, which can provide basic information about the development of the pathology.

  • Adenomyosis as a pathology of the endometrium

    Adenomyosis is a common disease. Frequent companions of this pathology are the (overgrowth) of the endometrium. In terms of frequency of occurrence, adenomyosis ranks third after inflammatory processes and uterine leiomyoma.

    Adenomyosis is one of the stages of endometriosis. According to the place of development, there is the following classification: genital and extragenital. The genital form, in turn, depending on the location, can be internal or external.

    External endometriosis affects the following:

    • parts of the cervix and body of the uterus,
    • retrocervical area,
    • the fallopian tubes,
    • vagina,
    • ovaries,
    • sheets of peritoneum,
    • douglas space.

    The internal one targets the body of the uterus or the supravaginal part of the cervix.

    Most domestic doctors, following Western researchers, are inclined to believe that internal endometriosis is adenomyosis. The famous authors of the widespread classification of endometriosis B.I. Zheleznov and his colleague A.N. Strizhakov believe that adenomyosis is only the 2nd and 3rd degree of the internal form of endometriosis. Such degrees are characterized by hyperplastic processes of muscle tissue, as well as foci of endometrial invasion into myometrial tissue.

    There is also a classification of adenomyosis. Adenomyosis is divided into:

    • diffuse (spreading throughout the endometrium),
    • focal,
    • nodal.

    Reasons for development

    The cause of endometrial tissue pathologies, including adenomyosis, is uncertain, but several theories have been put forward. A common theory is the implantation of separated endometrial cells during retrograde reflux of menstrual blood through.

    Other theories suggest metaplasia of the peritoneal mesothelium or spread by hematogenous and lymphatic routes. Genetic factors may also play a role, given the concordance of endometriosis in monozygotic twins. Much research has been carried out in search of a definitive cause of the disease, and such research is still ongoing.

    Risk factors

    Risk factors for the development of adenomyosis include increased levels of estrogen in the blood, early onset of menstruation, their abundance and increased duration (more than 8 days according to modern data), surgeries, the influence of an unfavorable environmental situation, smoking, obesity, prolonged stress, immune system disorders.

    There are studies that prove the presence of pathological contractility of uterine myocytes with adenomyosis, which indicates a possible genetic predisposition to this disease.

    Endometriosis and its symptoms are directly related to cyclical hormonal stimulation and are therefore only considered in women of reproductive age. Women who underwent bilateral oophorectomy and rapid and complete removal of ectopic endometrioid tissue experienced resolution or significant improvement in symptoms. Natural menopause also brings gradual relief from symptoms. Without cyclic hormonal stimulation by the ovary, bleeding from ectopic lesions stops, which leads to a decrease in symptoms.

    Symptoms

    Symptoms of adenomyosis include:

    • pain of varying intensity in the lower abdomen and lumbar region,
    • worse during menstruation,
    • premenstrual syndrome,
    • painful sexual intercourse,
    • painful bowel movement,
    • spotting “chocolate” discharge after and before menstruation.

    Adenomyosis is often accompanied by infertility, which is associated with the presence of resistance to progesterone and decreased endometrial receptivity in such patients.

    Diagnostics

    Bimanual examination

    To diagnose this pathology, a bimanual examination is used. With this method, the doctor places one hand on the stomach and the other in the vagina. Such an examination makes it possible to determine, and quite often, poor mobility that develops due to the adhesive process.

    Inspection in the mirrors

    Carrying out an examination in the mirrors on the chair is able to provide the doctor with information about the presence of endometriotic lesions in the vagina and on the surface of the vaginal part.

    Ultrasound diagnostics

    Based on the symptoms identified during questioning and initial examination, the gynecologist can refer the patient to. Moreover, if there is reason to believe that a woman has adenomyosis, it is better to perform a dynamic ultrasound to assess changes in the structure of the myometrium and endometrium, preferably.

    Preparation - cleansing the intestines on the eve of the study, it is advisable not to eat gas-forming foods (legumes, fresh cabbage, etc.) the day before.

    When the first (initial) stage of internal endometriosis is detected, the uterus may be slightly enlarged on ultrasound; small cystic inclusions up to 2-3 mm in diameter can be detected in the projection of the uterine walls. Cystic formations can affect the structure of the myometrium: it becomes heterogeneous. In this case, echogenicity increases slightly.

    An ultrasound scan may reveal a round, spherical shape of the uterus. This occurs because the anteroposterior size of the uterus increases and becomes more than 45 mm. In addition, ultrasound may reveal that the ratio of length to thickness of the uterine body increases to 1-1.1.

    When stage 2 or 3 of adenomyosis occurs, the muscular wall of the uterus is damaged towards the serous layer. This indicates diffuse damage to the uterus, in which the following symptoms may be observed:

    • characteristic echo pattern of myometrial heterogeneity like a “honeycomb”;
    • asymmetry of the thickness of the uterine walls;
    • linear striations and blurred outline are visualized;
    • thickening of the uterine connective zone more than 12 mm;
    • increased size of the uterus;
    • the echogenicity of the layers of the uterus closest to the sensor increases significantly, which makes inspection of the underlying uterine wall not the easiest task;
    • the size of the uterus is increased;
    • a large number of linear stripes of medium and low echogenicity that run perpendicular to the scanning plane (such stripes diverge in a fan shape from the ultrasound sensor).

    The nodular variety has the shape of a round formation. Such formations do not have very clear contours and are hyperechoic, which is caused by the absence of a connective tissue capsule.

    The heterogeneous structure of the uterus is caused by cystic inclusions of a nature that have a diameter of 2-6 mm. The uterine wall affected by adenomyosis is thicker than the healthy one. With focal lesions, the area of ​​the myometrium altered by adenomyosis contains several endometrioid nodes, often with cystic inclusions.

    Ultrasound picture in Doppler mode

    With adenomyosis, a slight increase in vascular resistance and increased blood flow in tissues affected by the disease can be detected. In addition, the vascular resistance index in the affected areas will be from 0.45 to 1.0. The adenomyosis inclusions themselves are not penetrated by vessels.

    Possible diagnostic errors

    Differential diagnosis of adenomyosis is not an easy matter. In this regard, errors often occur when diagnosing adenomyosis, due to the fact that its symptoms can imitate the signs of other diseases.

    For example, myomatous nodes can be confused with endometrial tissues located in unusual places for them. The former may be favored by the specific “bending around” of the node by the feeding vessel in the CDC or EDC mode. In addition, the pathology of the endometrium in this case can be indicated by the relative immutability of the structure of the fibroids, which is revealed during regular examinations during the menstrual cycle, and the clarity of its contours.

    Also, endometriosis (internal, diffuse form) can be visually confused with metroendometritis, in which swelling of the myometrium and changes in the echographic characteristics of its structure and the structure of the M-echo are also observed. However, with metroendometritis there will be characteristic clinical symptoms and laboratory test data.

    The nodular form of adenomyosis may resemble the structure of uterine sarcoma, however, this formation has characteristic hypervascularization in the CD mode with a low-resistant type of blood flow. An arteriovenous anomaly of the uterus can be distinguished from adenomyosis by also using. In this case, pathological vascular cavities will be displayed by color loci with a turbulent appearance of blood flow with a high systolic velocity.

    The effectiveness of adenomyosis directly depends on the following: the qualifications of the doctor, the choice of scanning method, and the correct assessment of the formed clinical picture.

    Often, diagnostic difficulties that arise during a single visit to the ultrasound diagnostic room are resolved by monitoring over time: visits to the ultrasound diagnostic room throughout the menstrual cycle.

    In this case, signs of endometrial pathologies can be assessed more effectively and with greater accuracy.

    An ultrasound doctor performing an examination on a woman with suspected adenomyosis must know the clinical symptoms of all possible gynecological diseases and have information about the echographic picture of internal endometriosis in order to avoid possible errors and loss of time for the patient and her attending physician.

    Adenomyosis on echograms

Content

In some cases, the uterus may change its shape and become spherical, despite the fact that the organ is normally pear-shaped. Such changes occur either during pregnancy or with adenomyosis.

Adenomyosis

The spherical shape of the uterus is a change in the shape and structure of the organ, which most often occurs as a result of a disease or pregnancy. The main cause is still adenomyosis.

Adenomyosis is the growth of the endometrium of the uterus into the muscle layer. Cell proliferation occurs by contact. At the same time, the organ increases in size and takes on a spherical shape. The uterus reaches the volume that is usually characteristic of 5-6 weeks of pregnancy. This pathological process, namely the ingrowth of endometrial cells into the muscle layer, disrupts the contractile function of the organ and leads to a number of serious consequences.

The disease usually occurs in women of childbearing age, especially after 27-30 years. Adenomyosis is the third most common disease of the female reproductive system and often occurs in combination with fibroids or external endometriosis. As the cells of the inner lining of the globular uterus divide, their appearance in the muscle layer can cause the formation of cysts, tumors or adhesions in the surrounding tissues.

Recently, research has been conducted in the field of science and medicine to establish the relationship between adenomyosis and infertility. It is believed that the pathological processes occurring in the spherical uterus can prevent the conception of a child.

Classification

There are two main classifications of adenomyosis, which is characterized by a spherical uterus. The first of them is based on morphology, cytology and histology. There are 4 main forms:

  • focal type. In this case, the cells of the inner membrane penetrate into the muscle layer, forming separate foci.
  • nodal type. In this case, endometrial cells spread throughout the muscle layer in the form of nodes. The nodes are most often surrounded by connective tissue and have a cavity filled with blood.
  • diffuse type. This type is not characterized by the formation of nodes or foci when the endometrium penetrates the myometrium. The uterus takes on a spherical shape and increases significantly in size.
  • mixed type. In this case, the morphology and structure of the spherical uterus includes features of a nodular and diffuse type.

The second classification option is based on the division of pathology into 4 degrees:

  1. 1 degree. Violations are observed only in the submucous membrane of the spherical uterus.
  2. 2 degree. Endometrial cells penetrate into the myometrium to a shallow depth.
  3. 3 degree. The proliferation of mucosal cells occurs in most of the muscular layer of the globular uterus.
  4. 4th degree. Structural changes are noted throughout the depth of the myometrium; in addition, the pathology can spread to neighboring organs and tissues.

In later stages the disease can cause not only a change in the shape of the uterus, but also the spread of pathology to the organs and muscle fibers of the abdominal cavity.

Causes of the disease

The spherical shape of the uterus has several development paths. There are certain reasons for the growth of the endometrium, characterized by a change in the shape of the uterus to a spherical one. First of all, this is mechanical damage, injury or disruption of the integrity of the internal mucous membrane. Because of this, there is a strong growth of the endometrium, and the penetration of its cells into the muscular layer of the spherical uterus. Damage can occur during abortion, improper use of the intrauterine device, surgical curettage, as well as complicated childbirth.

The second important reason is changes in hormonal levels. It is this fact, according to many gynecologists, that is fundamental when changing the shape of the uterus to a spherical one. It follows that obesity or menstrual irregularities (periods started too early or too late) are also causes of the disease. Since both of these factors are most often provoked by serious disturbances in a woman’s hormonal system.

Changes in the functioning of the immune system play a key role in the development of the disease. A normal immune response will not allow endometrial cells to take root in unusual conditions.

Cause of globular uterus There may also be a hereditary predisposition.

Chronic inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary system, regular excessive physical activity, stress and hard work - all these are prerequisites for disrupting the functioning of a woman’s reproductive system. That is why, to eliminate this or that pathology, doctors first of all recommend getting more rest and normalizing your work schedule.

Main symptoms

There are both very specific symptoms characteristic only of this disease, and general signs of dysfunction of the reproductive system. Some of them may practically not manifest themselves and cause no discomfort to the patient in everyday life, while others can be quite serious and lead to complications.

Symptoms characteristic of adenomyosis, the main symptom of which is a spherical uterus:

  • Heavy menstruation. The endometrium plays an important role in the menstrual cycle, because if fertilization does not occur, its cells are released from the body along with the blood. The growth of the endometrium into the muscle layer causes heavy bleeding. Often this process in its advanced form can lead to the development of anemia.
  • Brown discharge before the onset of menstruation.
  • Severe pain in the lower abdomen. Such pain is especially often associated with the menstrual cycle. Many women mistakenly believe that severe pain before, during or after menstruation is normal. However, this is absolutely not true. Such a symptom may indicate a serious disease of the reproductive system.
  • Pain during sexual intercourse. Endometrial growth can cause discomfort or pain during sex. This is precisely what becomes a reason for a woman to see a doctor, after which the pathology of the genital organs is diagnosed.
  • Difficulties conceiving and bearing a child. A spherical uterus and a violation of the integrity of the muscular layer of the organ often causes adhesions in the fallopian tubes, which subsequently prevents the release of the egg and its fusion with the sperm. Increased myometrial tone due to the penetration of endometrial cells into it can cause spontaneous miscarriage, i.e. termination of pregnancy.

In addition to all the listed symptoms, the patient may be bothered by frequent headaches, general malaise, nausea, gastrointestinal dysfunction, or frequent urination. However, these signs are only general for most diseases of the internal genital organs.

Diagnostics

The first thing they do to diagnose any disease is interview the patient, as well as study the medical history. Next, the gynecologist needs to conduct an examination on the chair using special instruments. It is best to carry out the examination a few days before the onset of menstruation - this applies to ultrasound examination. During the examination, the doctor determines a change in the shape of the uterus and an increase in the size of the organ. There may also be tuberosity of the endometrium, the presence of nodes or bumps on the walls of the inner lining of the uterus.

The main method for diagnosing most diseases of the internal genital organs is ultrasound. This method allows you to obtain the most accurate information about the location of the uterus, the features of its structure and structure, as well as its size and shape.

Hysteroscopy is another important method. It can be used to perform curettage and histological examination of the endometrium on glass, as well as to detect places of penetration of endometrial cells into the myometrium of the uterus with video support.

Use of multiple diagnostic methods will allow you to obtain the most complete and accurate information about the patient’s condition, as well as select effective and safe treatment.

Treatment

One of the main signs of which is a spherical uterus, depends on the degree and type of the disease. The patient’s age, individual characteristics of the body, and whether the woman plans to become pregnant in the future are also taken into account.

There are two types of treatment.

  • Conservative. This means only drug treatment. In this case, the doctor prescribes anti-inflammatory and hormonal drugs, vitamin complexes, as well as agents that activate the immune system.
  • Surgical. If medication treatment does not help, surgery is performed. It can be of two types: radical, in which the affected organ is completely removed, or gentle, with preservation of the uterus. Complete removal occurs quite rarely, in the most extreme cases and only for patients over 40-45 years old. In other cases, the affected area of ​​the endometrium is cauterized with a laser or electric current.

Adenomyosis and changes in the shape of the uterus as a result of the disease are conditions that are characterized by a chronic course and regular development of relapses. In 70% of patients, after appropriate treatment, the disease recurs over the next 5 years. Women over 40 years of age are least susceptible to relapses, as the functioning of their ovaries begins to fade.

A spherical uterus can be observed in two cases: at 5-6 weeks of pregnancy, and also when the endometrium grows into the myometrium. In the second case, adenomyosis develops, diagnosis and treatment of which will help prevent anemia, problems with conception and pregnancy.

The spherical shape of the uterus is a change in the shape and structure of the organ, which most often occurs as a result of a disease or pregnancy. The main cause is still adenomyosis.

Adenomyosis is the growth of the endometrium of the uterus into the muscle layer. Cell proliferation occurs by contact. At the same time, the organ increases in size and takes on a spherical shape. The uterus reaches the volume that is usually characteristic of 5-6 weeks of pregnancy. This pathological process, namely the ingrowth of endometrial cells into the muscle layer, disrupts the contractile function of the organ and leads to a number of serious consequences.

The disease usually occurs in women of childbearing age, especially in their later years. Adenomyosis is the third most common disease of the female reproductive system and often occurs in combination with fibroids or external endometriosis. As the cells of the inner lining of the globular uterus divide, their appearance in the muscle layer can cause the formation of cysts, tumors or adhesions in the surrounding tissues.

Recently, research has been conducted in the field of science and medicine to establish the relationship between adenomyosis and infertility. It is believed that the pathological processes occurring in the spherical uterus can prevent the conception of a child.

Classification

There are two main classifications of adenomyosis, which is characterized by a spherical uterus. The first of them is based on morphology, cytology and histology. There are 4 main forms:

  • focal type. In this case, the cells of the inner membrane penetrate into the muscle layer, forming separate foci.
  • nodal type. In this case, endometrial cells spread throughout the muscle layer in the form of nodes. The nodes are most often surrounded by connective tissue and have a cavity filled with blood.
  • diffuse type. This type is not characterized by the formation of nodes or foci when the endometrium penetrates the myometrium. The uterus takes on a spherical shape and increases significantly in size.
  • mixed type. In this case, the morphology and structure of the spherical uterus includes features of a nodular and diffuse type.

The second classification option is based on the division of pathology into 4 degrees:

  1. 1 degree. Violations are observed only in the submucous membrane of the spherical uterus.
  2. 2 degree. Endometrial cells penetrate into the myometrium to a shallow depth.
  3. 3 degree. The proliferation of mucosal cells occurs in most of the muscular layer of the globular uterus.
  4. 4th degree. Structural changes are noted throughout the depth of the myometrium; in addition, the pathology can spread to neighboring organs and tissues.

Causes of the disease

The spherical shape of the uterus has several development paths. There are certain reasons for the growth of the endometrium, characterized by a change in the shape of the uterus to a spherical one. First of all, this is mechanical damage, injury or disruption of the integrity of the internal mucous membrane. Because of this, there is a strong growth of the endometrium, and the penetration of its cells into the muscular layer of the spherical uterus. Damage can occur during abortion, improper use of the intrauterine device, surgical curettage, as well as complicated childbirth.

The second important reason is changes in hormonal levels. It is this fact, according to many gynecologists, that is fundamental when changing the shape of the uterus to a spherical one. It follows that obesity or menstrual irregularities (periods started too early or too late) are also causes of the disease. Since both of these factors are most often provoked by serious disturbances in a woman’s hormonal system.

Changes in the functioning of the immune system play a key role in the development of the disease. A normal immune response will not allow endometrial cells to take root in unusual conditions.

Chronic inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary system, regular excessive physical activity, stress and hard work - all these are prerequisites for disrupting the functioning of a woman’s reproductive system. That is why, to eliminate this or that pathology, doctors first of all recommend getting more rest and normalizing your work schedule.

Main symptoms

There are both very specific symptoms characteristic only of this disease, and general signs of dysfunction of the reproductive system. Some of them may practically not manifest themselves and cause no discomfort to the patient in everyday life, while others can be quite serious and lead to complications.

Symptoms characteristic of adenomyosis, the main symptom of which is a spherical uterus:

  • Heavy menstruation. The endometrium plays an important role in the menstrual cycle, because if fertilization does not occur, its cells are released from the body along with the blood. The growth of the endometrium into the muscle layer causes heavy bleeding. Often this process in its advanced form can lead to the development of anemia.
  • Brown discharge before the onset of menstruation.
  • Severe pain in the lower abdomen. Such pain is especially often associated with the menstrual cycle. Many women mistakenly believe that severe pain before, during or after menstruation is normal. However, this is absolutely not true. Such a symptom may indicate a serious disease of the reproductive system.
  • Pain during sexual intercourse. Endometrial growth can cause discomfort or pain during sex. This is precisely what becomes a reason for a woman to see a doctor, after which the pathology of the genital organs is diagnosed.
  • Difficulties conceiving and bearing a child. A spherical uterus and a violation of the integrity of the muscular layer of the organ often causes adhesions in the fallopian tubes, which subsequently prevents the release of the egg and its fusion with the sperm. Increased myometrial tone due to the penetration of epidermal cells into it can cause spontaneous miscarriage, i.e. termination of pregnancy.

In addition to all the listed symptoms, the patient may be bothered by frequent headaches, general malaise, nausea, gastrointestinal dysfunction, or frequent urination. However, these signs are only general for most diseases of the internal genital organs.

Diagnostics

The first thing they do to diagnose any disease is interview the patient, as well as study the medical history. Next, the gynecologist needs to conduct an examination on the chair using special instruments. It is best to carry out the examination a few days before the onset of menstruation - this applies to ultrasound examination. During the examination, the doctor determines a change in the shape of the uterus and an increase in the size of the organ. There may also be tuberosity of the endometrium, the presence of nodes or bumps on the walls of the inner lining of the uterus.

The main method for diagnosing most diseases of the internal genital organs is ultrasound. This method allows you to obtain the most accurate information about the location of the uterus, the features of its structure and structure, as well as its size and shape.

Hysteroscopy is another important method. It can be used to perform curettage and histological examination of the endometrium on glass, as well as to detect places of penetration of endometrial cells into the myometrium of the uterus with video support.

Treatment

Treatment of adenomyosis, one of the main symptoms of which is a spherical uterus, depends on the degree and type of the disease. The patient’s age, individual characteristics of the body, and whether the woman plans to become pregnant in the future are also taken into account.

There are two types of treatment.

  • Conservative. This means only drug treatment. In this case, the doctor prescribes anti-inflammatory and hormonal drugs, vitamin complexes, as well as agents that activate the immune system.
  • Surgical. If medication treatment does not help, surgery is performed. It can be of two types: radical, in which the affected organ is completely removed, or gentle, with preservation of the uterus. Complete removal occurs quite rarely, in the most extreme cases and only in older patients. In other cases, the affected area of ​​the endometrium is cauterized with a laser or electric current.

Adenomyosis and changes in the shape of the uterus as a result of the disease are conditions that are characterized by a chronic course and regular development of relapses. In 70% of patients, after appropriate treatment, the disease recurs over the next 5 years. Women over 40 years of age are least susceptible to relapses, as the functioning of their ovaries begins to fade.

A spherical uterus can be observed in two cases: at 5-6 weeks of pregnancy, and also when the endometrium grows into the myometrium. In the second case, adenomyosis develops, diagnosis and treatment of which will help prevent anemia, problems with conception and pregnancy.

Ball-shaped uterus: an atypical shape of the reproductive organ

The accelerated rhythm of modern life draws a woman into a whirlpool of events, affairs, and interests. In this bustle, representatives of the fair sex do not always pay due attention to the state of their women's health. Without noticing the signs of many diseases, for a woman the diagnosis of a globular uterus may sound like a bolt from the blue. And although this phenomenon is by no means uncommon - it occurs in 70% of women who have crossed the thirty-year mark - not everyone imagines the features and scale of such a pathology.

What is a globular uterus?

Ball-shaped uterus - what is it? Alternative names for the pathology are adenomyosis, internal genital endometriosis. It is a pathology of the female reproductive organ, in which endometriosis grows into other uterine zones. In particular, this process can form in the area of ​​the uterus itself (ovaries, vagina, fallopian membranes) and outside it (lungs, intestines, urinary tract, sometimes in postoperative wounds).

Ball-shaped uterus - pathology of the female reproductive organ

The norm is that the endometrium grows exclusively into the uterine cavity. With adenomyosis, the endometrium gradually penetrates the muscular wall of the organ.

By the way. The endometrium “populates” the uterine wall not everywhere, but locally, i.e. in some places. For comparison purposes, you can imagine seedlings planted in a cardboard box. When the seedlings have not been planted in the ground for a long time, the root system of the plants will gradually begin to grow through the cracks of the box. By the same principle, the endometrium penetrates the wall of the uterus.

The uterus itself does not remain inactive - it reacts to an uninvited invasion. As a result, individual areas of muscle tissue around the enlarged endometrium thicken. In this way, the uterus tries to stop further pathological growth. Gradually, following the muscle, the uterus itself enlarges, eventually becoming round in shape.

Causes

Atypical growth of endometrial cells can be caused by the following reasons:

  • Various surgical interventions (caesarean section, abortion, curettage) contribute to the destruction of the internal septum of the uterus. As a result, the endometrium is able to freely droop into the organ cavity.
  • Disturbances in the intrauterine development of the reproductive system of the female embryo.
  • Malfunctions of the endocrine system.
  • Weak opening of the cervix during menstruation. At this moment, endometrial cells are under pressure, which causes its penetration into the wall of the uterus, and then into the peritoneal cavity.
  • Adenomyosis often becomes a companion for women who love excessive sunbathing and visiting a solarium;
  • Allergic reactions, infectious diseases, liver pathologies - all signs indicating low immunity can cause adenomyosis.
  • Stress, nervous shock, as well as a sedentary lifestyle can provoke stagnant processes in the pelvis. For this reason, compactions form in the uterus, and adenomyosis begins.

The mechanism of pathology development

As a rule, during menstruation, excess endometrium begins to be rejected by the body. And if the uterus has the ability to remove “unusable” tissues, then other organs susceptible to adenomyosis do not have this opportunity. As a result, they swell and put pressure on the nerve endings, causing acute pain.

Heavy monthly bleeding is explained by the fact that the amount of excess uterine lining increases with adenomyosis. Subsequently, this “ballast” is thrown directly into the uterine cavity and provokes an increase in the volume of discharge.

Pain during menstruation becomes especially acute in the first day - this means that the rounded uterus is trying to get rid of excess endometrium. Depending on the location of the uterus, pain can be felt in different parts of the body. So, if the endometrium has spread in one of the uterine angles, the discomfort will be localized in the groin area. The affected cervix will make itself felt by pain in the area of ​​the rectum or vagina.

Symptoms of the anomaly

A spherical uterus does not always make its presence known in the female body. Sometimes the pathology is asymptomatic, and a woman may not even be aware of the presence of problems with the shape of the reproductive organ. However, in advanced cases, the following alarming symptoms may appear:

  • Heavy bleeding during menstruation. A very characteristic sign of adenomyosis. In addition to the completely natural feeling of discomfort about this, a woman runs the risk of developing anemia, which is fraught with subsequent complications. Women with advanced stages of adenomyosis are especially at risk.
  • Brownish spotting between periods. Some women mistake them for the beginning of menstruation. But such a discharge can cause anemia.
  • Painful sensations during intimacy. Otherwise, this not the most pleasant phenomenon is called dyspareunia. This circumstance often becomes the cause of physiological and psychological problems in the intimate life of sexual partners. Pain during sex is one of the most common reasons that brings a woman to see a gynecologist.
  • Pain immediately before, during and after the end of menstruation. Many women consider pain before and during menstruation to be an absolutely normal, typical phenomenon. This position is fundamentally wrong. Pain, especially sharp and prolonged pain, is a serious reason to consult a specialist.
  • Disruptions in the menstrual cycle. Usually with adenomyosis it becomes shorter than usual.
  • During a gynecological examination, the doctor diagnoses an enlarged uterus. This can easily be detected by palpation of the uterus by a gynecologist.

Important! Very often, the symptoms of adenomyosis are confused with manifestations of other gynecological diseases. To exclude all possible unfavorable options and diagnose pathology, you must immediately contact a gynecologist if you discover one or more alarming signs.

Diagnosis of a globular uterus

Ultrasound is considered the main method for diagnosing adenomyosis. Using this study, the size of the reproductive organ, its structure, the boundaries of the endometrium and myometrium are determined. Also, a similar method allows you to determine the degree of germination of the mucous membrane into the uterus. The accuracy of the results is about 90%.

An examination by a gynecologist can also confirm that the patient has a round uterus. The size of the organ varies from normal to atypical (corresponding to 6-8 weeks of gestation). The surface of the organ is uneven, touching certain places can cause pain.

For a more accurate diagnosis, a hysteroscopy procedure can be used. Its essence is the introduction of a specialized device into the uterine cavity. In this case, the walls of the organ are visualized from the inside and the doctor has the opportunity to assess the extent of the pathology, take a tissue sample for a biopsy, or carry out therapeutic measures (cauterization of inflammation, removal of polyps, etc.).

Colposcopy is one of the methods for diagnosing and treating adenomyosis

In some cases, the doctor hesitates in making a diagnosis, since adenomyosis is similar in symptoms to uterine fibroids. To finally verify the correctness of the diagnosis, the patient may be sent for a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedure.

Treatment methods for adenomyosis

According to medical research, the shape of the uterus and the ability to get pregnant are not directly related. In other words, adenomyosis itself is not considered a cause of infertility. But often the germination of the endometrium is accompanied by additional complications (fibroids or endometriosis), which can become an obstacle to the desired pregnancy. Cured adenomyosis increases the possibility of conception by 30-60%. If there are no complications throughout the pregnancy, a woman with a spherical uterus can safely give birth naturally. The only complication may be the risk of uterine bleeding.

Treatment of a uterus that has taken on an atypical shape is carried out in the following ways:

  • Taking hormonal drugs. With their help, an artificial menopause is created. Upon completion of the treatment course, there is a risk of re-growth of the endometrium. Therefore, the doctor selects hormonal medications for the patient with the optimal dosage for continuous use. Modern treatments of this type cause virtually no damage to the female body.
  • Embolization of the uterine arteries. Helps improve blood circulation in organ tissues.
  • Surgical intervention. It is recommended to eliminate the affected tissue areas, nodes, or the entire organ as a whole.

Possible consequences, complications

Adenomyosis that is not detected and treated in time can lead to unpleasant consequences and provoke complications in the functioning of the reproductive organs. In particular, the consequences may be as follows:

  • Iron-deficiency anemia;
  • development of endometriosis into a malignant tumor;
  • infertility.

Adenomyosis can cause infertility

Adenomyosis is a serious pathology of the female reproductive system. To prevent uterine deformation and further problems, a woman needs to carefully monitor her reproductive health. Regular visits to the gynecologist, proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle are mandatory.

Ball-shaped uterus

So why is it spherical? Does this affect anything at all?

It's a bit long. The discharge is average for the first three days and for another 2 days the discharge is small, there are no clots. On the first day my head definitely breaks from pain, but this is unlikely to have anything to do with endometriosis.

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philia//Julia, which lab did you take it in? Last time I took in vitro at 17.00 and by 21.00 I already had the result.

Graviola, yes, I have Nattokinase, Curantil 75, Rutin 125, Enixum 2*0.4, Venotonic (analogous to Phlebod.

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Comments

An ultrasound revealed that I had a spherical uterus... and diagnosed Adenomyosis grade 1-2, and this is what I read as endometriosis:(((

When I asked how to treat, the answer was: “You are planning B, this will be a good treatment. "And that's all. (((But it turns out to be a problem with such a diagnosis, it’s not at all easy:(((((((((

But I read that adenomyosis (enometriosis) is characterized by infertility. It turns out to be a vicious circle..%) But we don’t give up, we don’t give up and we don’t give up. We try our best! ;))

Thank you! And good luck to you!

And doctors say about this, try it, maybe it will help :)))))))))))

The urologist put adanomyosis into question for me, because... three weeks ago everything was fine. But any diagnosis scares me now. I really want to give birth to at least one baby. Even during pregnancy, my uterus was of the correct shape, but here it is. They describe on the Internet that this is dangerous during pregnancy.

And they didn’t prescribe anything to you at all? I've been drinking since I was 16 days old. Duphaston is sometimes harmful, but now I don’t know if I can drink it or if it won’t hurt.

I had an ST 6 months ago - they cleaned it. I read that after cleansing there is a high percentage of endometriosis, so I think maybe I have the consequences of cleansing. I'm only 2 months without ok. Last month I was already at the change, they didn’t see anything, they said everything was fine, but this year I’m at 6 d.c. I had pain in my side, I went for an ultrasound, I thought suddenly it was appendages. And there Uzistka saw a spherical uterus.

I’m also thinking about going to another uzist. Do you have indications for IVF? My husband and I also wanted to try it 4 years ago, but they turned us down, they said that there was no indication, you could take it yourself. and give birth.

Actually, it’s your choice to go eco or not. If you can’t do it yourself for so long, then in any case this is already a problem. I myself went and said what I wanted, I pay the money, what difference does it make to them whether I do eco, AI or something else. I want a child, and doctors are obliged to help me. It seems to me that this has more to do with financial opportunities.

Hello girls! I recently had an ultrasound - there were stabbing pains in the lower abdomen in the middle (probably the uterus), and it’s been six months already.

I had an ultrasound on January 7th. There was nothing in the myometrium. Only two cysts on both ovaries, one follicular, the other - the corpus luteum. There were 25 DC, a cycle of 30 days. M began on January 13. Today is 9 DC, on.

Maybe someone knows or has met someone like this. On one ultrasound in the last cycle the shape of the uterus was normal, but now at the end of this cycle they write to me that the uterus is round and question Endometriosis. It's possible.

Girls, please give me some advice. I’m 4 weeks pregnant, yesterday I had an ultrasound, the conclusion was: uterine fibroids - interstitial node 9 by 5 mm. on the back wall (although I did an ultrasound on 03.11. M was not there). The doctor said that it would not affect B.

Uterus http://radiomed.ru/forum/uzi-v-ghiniekologhii Standards for the size of the cervix and uterine body in women of reproductive age, taking into account obstetric and gynecological history, are presented in Table 1. It should be noted that the size of the uterus is influenced not only by previous pregnancies, but also by the phase of the menstrual cycle.

Girls, hello everyone. At an ultrasound at 8 weeks, the doctor said that I had a saddle uterus. Nothing like this had ever been installed before. And I, my dear, kept looking at the kids on the screen and didn’t ask where it came from. Maybe u.

Who knows what a histopathic uterus is? They write on the Internet that it is a uterine rupture.

Today I had an ultrasound and my cyst was gone. The doctor said that my uterus is curved backwards, what does that mean? Can it affect conception?

Adenomyosis – spherical uterus

Adenomyosis can cause infertility. Most often it occurs in women over 35 years of age, but congenitality of the disease cannot be ruled out.

What is adenomyosis?

Adenomyosis and endometriosis are often compared with each other. And if endometriosis is the attachment of endometrial cells to a variety of organs, then adenomyosis is their penetration into the muscular, next layer of the uterus.

Penetration of cells provokes a protective reaction of the immune system. She perceives them as strangers, and the walls of the uterus begin to gradually thicken in order to prevent foreign invasion. This protection explains the description of the shape of the uterus in the form of a ball in adenomyosis. Thickening of the walls increases the size of the organ and leads to the transformation of the organ into a ball.

This fight of the immune system with “foreign” cells depletes it, causing infertility. Although pregnancy is still possible in some cases.

During menstruation, ingrown endometrial cells cannot come out. Remaining inside, they only swell and provoke hemorrhage into the muscle layer of the uterus.

Doctors identify several main causes of the disease:

  • Abortions, curettages.
  • C-section. Surgery increases the risk of endometrial cells spreading to other organs of the reproductive system.
  • Chronic stress.
  • Abuse of solarium, sunbathing, mud therapy (baths).

Adenomyosis is sometimes asymptomatic. But it is usually accompanied by the following symptoms:

  • pain during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia);
  • prolonged, heavy discharge during menstruation (in 40% of patients);
  • brownish, dark discharge before and after menstruation;
  • menstrual irregularities (usually shortened);
  • pain in the pelvic area before, during and after menstruation;
  • enlargement of the uterus to a size comparable to the 5th or 6th week of pregnancy.

If any of these symptoms occur, contact your doctor immediately.

To identify adenomyosis, the following is carried out:

  • gynecological examination of the genitals using mirrors;
  • hysteroscopy (examination using an optical device);
  • examination by a gastroenterologist, endocrinologist and cardiologist (on the recommendation of a gynecologist).

The stage of the adenomyosis disease, the woman’s age, her general health, and the degree of damage to the muscle tissue of the uterus allows you to choose one or another treatment for adenomyosis. But in general, there are only two types of treatment:

  • medication – successful in the early stages, without complications; medications normalize hormonal balance (hormonal drugs) and restore the immune system (immunomodulatory drugs);
  • surgical – recommended from the 3rd stage of the disease; the scope of surgical intervention depends on each specific case; the operation restores the anatomical structure of the organ and removes as many areas of inflammation as possible; after discharge, a doctor’s examination is required every 7-10 days; pregnancy must occur within 2 years; multiple lesions portend infertility even after surgery;
  • electrocoagulation is a new method of eliminating lesions with anesthesia.

An absolute cure from adenomyosis is stated only in the case of a regular menstrual cycle, absence of discharge, pain during intercourse and relapses for 5 years.

To prevent adenomyosis, it is extremely important to undergo regular examinations with a gynecologist, learn to relieve stress and not overuse tanning.

Comments

Svetlana | Written: 11/27:47:31 Today adenomyosis can be cured in just 1 day.

hgfgh | Posted: 02/05:43:27

Olga | Posted: 01/16:07:16

Olga | Posted: 01/16:07:15

Olga | Posted: 01/16:07:15

Olga | Posted: 01/16:07:15

Olga | Posted: 01/16:07:15

Olga | Posted: 01/16:07:15

Olga | Posted: 01/16:07:12

Olga | Posted: 01/16:07:10

Olga | Posted: 01/16:07:09

JEANNA | Written: 12/21:13:10 TELL ME, IS IT TRUE THAT YOU CAN BE CURED OF ADENOMYOSIS BY GIVING BIRTH TO A CHILD?

Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis is a disease in which the inner lining (endometrium) grows into the muscle tissue of the uterus. It is a type of endometriosis. It manifests itself as long, heavy menstruation, bleeding and brownish discharge during the intermenstrual period, severe PMS, pain during menstruation and during sex. Adenomyosis usually develops in patients of childbearing age and subsides after the onset of menopause. Diagnosed on the basis of a gynecological examination, the results of instrumental and laboratory tests. Treatment is conservative, surgical or combined.

Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis is the growth of the endometrium into the underlying layers of the uterus. Usually affects women of reproductive age, most often occurring after the age. Sometimes it is congenital. It fades away on its own after menopause. It is the third most common gynecological disease after adnexitis and uterine fibroids and is often combined with the latter. Currently, gynecologists note an increase in the incidence of adenomyosis, which may be due to both an increase in the number of immune disorders and improved diagnostic methods.

Patients with adenomyosis often suffer from infertility, however, the direct connection between the disease and the inability to conceive and bear a child has not yet been precisely established; many experts believe that the cause of infertility is not adenomyosis, but concomitant endometriosis. Regular heavy bleeding can cause anemia. Severe PMS and intense pain during menstruation negatively affect the patient’s psychological state and can cause the development of neurosis. Treatment of adenomyosis is carried out by specialists in the field of gynecology.

Relationship between adenomyosis and endometriosis

Adenomyosis is a type of endometriosis, a disease in which endometrial cells multiply outside the lining of the uterus (in the fallopian tubes, ovaries, digestive, respiratory or urinary systems). Cell spread occurs by contact, lymphogenous or hematogenous route. Endometriosis is not a tumor disease, since heterotopically located cells retain their normal structure.

However, the disease can cause a number of complications. All cells of the inner lining of the uterus, regardless of their location, undergo cyclic changes under the influence of sex hormones. They multiply intensively and then are rejected during menstruation. This entails the formation of cysts, inflammation of surrounding tissues and the development of adhesions. The frequency of the combination of internal and external endometriosis is unknown, but experts suggest that most patients with uterine adenomyosis have heterotopic foci of endometrial cells in various organs.

Causes of adenomyosis

The reasons for the development of this pathology have not yet been precisely clarified. It has been established that adenomyosis is a hormone-dependent disease. The development of the disease is facilitated by impaired immunity and damage to the thin layer of connective tissue that separates the endometrium and myometrium and prevents the growth of the endometrium deep into the uterine wall. Damage to the separation plate is possible during abortion, diagnostic curettage, use of an intrauterine device, inflammatory diseases, childbirth (especially complicated ones), operations and dysfunctional uterine bleeding (especially after operations or during treatment with hormonal drugs).

Other risk factors for the development of adenomyosis associated with the activity of the female reproductive system include too early or too late the onset of menstruation, late onset of sexual activity, taking oral contraceptives, hormonal therapy and obesity, which leads to an increase in the amount of estrogen in the body. Risk factors for adenomyosis associated with immune disorders include poor environmental conditions, allergic diseases and frequent infectious diseases.

Some chronic diseases (diseases of the digestive system, hypertension), excessive or insufficient physical activity also have a negative impact on the state of the immune system and the general reactivity of the body. Unfavorable heredity plays a certain role in the development of adenomyosis. The risk of this pathology increases if you have close relatives suffering from adenomyosis, endometriosis and tumors of the female genital organs. Congenital adenomyosis is possible due to disturbances in intrauterine development of the fetus.

Classification of uterine adenomyosis

Taking into account the morphological picture, four forms of adenomyosis are distinguished:

  • Focal adenomyosis. Endometrial cells invade the underlying tissues, forming separate foci.
  • Nodular adenomyosis. Endometrial cells are located in the myometrium in the form of nodes (adenomyomas), shaped like fibroids. The nodes, as a rule, are multiple, contain cavities filled with blood, and are surrounded by dense connective tissue formed as a result of inflammation.
  • Diffuse adenomyosis. Endometrial cells invade the myometrium without forming clearly visible foci or nodes.
  • Mixed diffuse nodular adenomyosis. It is a combination of nodular and diffuse adenomyosis.

Taking into account the depth of penetration of endometrial cells, four degrees of adenomyosis are distinguished:

  • 1st degree - only the submucosal layer of the uterus is affected.
  • 2nd degree – no more than half the depth of the muscular layer of the uterus is affected.
  • Grade 3 – more than half the depth of the muscular layer of the uterus is affected.
  • Grade 4 – the entire muscle layer is affected, with possible spread to neighboring organs and tissues.

Symptoms of adenomyosis

The most characteristic sign of adenomyosis is long (over 7 days), painful and very heavy menstruation. Clots are often detected in the blood. Brownish spotting is possible 2-3 days before menstruation and 2-3 days after it ends. Intermenstrual uterine bleeding and brownish discharge in the middle of the cycle are sometimes observed. Patients with adenomyosis often suffer from severe premenstrual syndrome.

Another typical symptom of adenomyosis is pain. Pain usually occurs several days before the start of menstruation and stops 2-3 days after it begins. Features of the pain syndrome are determined by the localization and prevalence of the pathological process. The most severe pain occurs with damage to the isthmus and widespread adenomyosis of the uterus, complicated by multiple adhesions. When localized in the area of ​​the isthmus, the pain can radiate to the perineum; when located in the area of ​​the angle of the uterus, it can radiate to the left or right groin area. Many patients complain of pain during sexual intercourse, which intensifies on the eve of menstruation.

More than half of patients with adenomyosis suffer from infertility, which is caused by adhesions in the fallopian tubes, preventing the penetration of the egg into the uterine cavity, disturbances in the structure of the endometrium, complicating the implantation of the egg, as well as the accompanying inflammatory process, increased myometrial tone and other factors that increase the likelihood of spontaneous abortion . Patients may have a history of no pregnancy with regular sexual activity or multiple miscarriages.

Heavy menstruation with adenomyosis often entails the development of iron deficiency anemia, which can manifest itself as weakness, drowsiness, fatigue, shortness of breath, pale skin and mucous membranes, frequent colds, dizziness, fainting and presyncope. Severe PMS, long menstruation, constant pain during menstruation and deterioration of general condition due to anemia reduce the patient's resistance to psychological stress and can provoke the development of neuroses.

Clinical manifestations of the disease may not correspond to the severity and extent of the process. Grade 1 adenomyosis is usually asymptomatic. In grades 2 and 3, both an asymptomatic or low-symptomatic course and severe clinical symptoms can be observed. Grade 4 adenomyosis is usually accompanied by pain caused by widespread adhesions; the severity of other symptoms may vary.

During a gynecological examination, changes in the shape and size of the uterus are revealed. With diffuse adenomyosis, the uterus becomes spherical and increases in size on the eve of menstruation; with a widespread process, the size of the organ can correspond to 8-10 weeks of pregnancy. With nodular adenomyosis, tuberosity of the uterus or tumor-like formations in the walls of the organ are detected. When adenomyosis and fibroids are combined, the size of the uterus corresponds to the size of the fibroids, the organ does not shrink after menstruation, and other symptoms of adenomyosis usually remain unchanged.

Diagnosis of adenomyosis

The diagnosis of adenomyosis is established on the basis of anamnesis, the patient’s complaints, examination data on a chair and the results of instrumental studies. A gynecological examination is carried out on the eve of menstruation. The presence of an enlarged spherical uterus or tubercles or nodes in the uterine area in combination with painful, prolonged, heavy menstruation, pain during sexual intercourse and signs of anemia is the basis for a preliminary diagnosis of adenomyosis.

The main diagnostic method is ultrasound. The most accurate results (about 90%) are provided by transvaginal ultrasound scanning, which, like a gynecological examination, is performed on the eve of menstruation. Adenomyosis is evidenced by the enlargement and spherical shape of the organ, varying wall thickness and cystic formations larger than 3 mm that appear in the uterine wall shortly before menstruation. With diffuse adenomyosis, the effectiveness of ultrasound is reduced. The most effective diagnostic method for this form of the disease is hysteroscopy.

Hysteroscopy is also used to exclude other diseases, including fibroids and uterine polyposis, endometrial hyperplasia and malignant neoplasms. In addition, in the process of differential diagnosis of adenomyosis, MRI is used, during which it is possible to detect thickening of the uterine wall, disturbances in the structure of the myometrium and foci of endometrial penetration into the myometrium, as well as assess the density and structure of the nodes. Instrumental diagnostic methods for adenomyosis are complemented by laboratory tests (blood and urine tests, hormone tests), which make it possible to diagnose anemia, inflammatory processes and hormonal imbalances.

Treatment and prognosis for adenomyosis

Treatment of adenomyosis can be conservative, surgical or combined. Treatment tactics are determined taking into account the form of adenomyosis, the prevalence of the process, the age and health status of the patient, and her desire to preserve reproductive function. Initially, conservative therapy is carried out. Patients are prescribed hormonal drugs, anti-inflammatory drugs, vitamins, immunomodulators and agents to maintain liver function. Anemia is treated. In the presence of neurosis, patients with adenomyosis are referred to psychotherapy, tranquilizers and antidepressants are used.

If conservative therapy is ineffective, surgical interventions are performed. Surgeries for adenomyosis can be radical (panhysterectomy, hysterectomy, supravaginal amputation of the uterus) or organ-preserving (endocoagulation of endometriosis foci). Indications for endocoagulation in adenomyosis are endometrial hyperplasia, suppuration, the presence of adhesions that prevent the egg from entering the uterine cavity, lack of effect when treated with hormonal drugs for 3 months and contraindications to hormonal therapy. Indications for hysterectomy include progression of adenomyosis in patients over 40 years of age, ineffectiveness of conservative therapy and organ-preserving surgical interventions, diffuse adenomyosis of grade 3 or nodular adenomyosis in combination with uterine fibroids, and the threat of malignancy.

If adenomyosis is detected in a woman planning a pregnancy, she is recommended to attempt conception no earlier than six months after undergoing a course of conservative treatment or endocoagulation. During the first trimester, the patient is prescribed gestagens. The need for hormonal therapy in the second and third trimester of pregnancy is determined taking into account the result of a blood test for progesterone levels. Pregnancy is a physiological menopause, accompanied by profound changes in hormonal levels and has a positive effect on the course of the disease, reducing the rate of proliferation of heterotopic endometrial cells.

Adenomyosis is a chronic disease with a high probability of relapse. After conservative therapy and organ-preserving surgical interventions during the first year, relapses of adenomyosis are detected in every fifth woman of reproductive age. Within five years, recurrence is observed in more than 70% of patients. In premenopausal patients, the prognosis for adenomyosis is more favorable, which is due to the gradual decline of ovarian function. After panhysterectomy, relapses are impossible. During menopause, spontaneous recovery occurs.

The accelerated rhythm of modern life draws a woman into a whirlpool of events, affairs, and interests. In this bustle, representatives of the fair sex do not always pay due attention to the state of their women's health. Without noticing the signs of many diseases, for a woman the diagnosis of a globular uterus may sound like a bolt from the blue. And although this phenomenon is by no means uncommon - it occurs in 70% of women who have crossed the thirty-year mark - not everyone imagines the features and scale of such a pathology.

Collapse

What is a globular uterus?

Ball-shaped uterus - what is it? Alternative names for the pathology are adenomyosis, internal genital endometriosis. It is a pathology of the female reproductive organ, in which endometriosis grows into other uterine zones. In particular, this process can form in the area of ​​the uterus itself (ovaries, vagina, fallopian membranes) and outside it (lungs, intestines, urinary tract, sometimes in postoperative wounds).

Ball-shaped uterus - pathology of the female reproductive organ

The norm is that the endometrium grows exclusively into the uterine cavity. With adenomyosis, the endometrium gradually penetrates the muscular wall of the organ.

By the way. The endometrium “populates” the uterine wall not everywhere, but locally, i.e. in some places. For comparison purposes, you can imagine seedlings planted in a cardboard box. When the seedlings have not been planted in the ground for a long time, the root system of the plants will gradually begin to grow through the cracks of the box. By the same principle, the endometrium penetrates the wall of the uterus.

The uterus itself does not remain inactive - it reacts to an uninvited invasion. As a result, individual areas of muscle tissue around the enlarged endometrium thicken. In this way, the uterus tries to stop further pathological growth. Gradually, following the muscle, the uterus itself enlarges, eventually becoming round in shape.

Causes

Atypical growth of endometrial cells can be caused by the following reasons:

  • Various surgical interventions (caesarean section, abortion, curettage) contribute to the destruction of the internal septum of the uterus. As a result, the endometrium is able to freely droop into the organ cavity.
  • Disturbances in the intrauterine development of the reproductive system of the female embryo.
  • Malfunctions of the endocrine system.
  • Weak opening of the cervix during menstruation. At this moment, endometrial cells are under pressure, which causes its penetration into the wall of the uterus, and then into the peritoneal cavity.
  • Adenomyosis often becomes a companion for women who love excessive sunbathing and visiting a solarium;
  • Allergic reactions, infectious diseases, liver pathologies - all signs indicating low immunity can cause adenomyosis.
  • Stress, nervous shock, as well as a sedentary lifestyle can provoke stagnant processes in the pelvis. For this reason, compactions form in the uterus, and adenomyosis begins.

The mechanism of pathology development

As a rule, during menstruation, excess endometrium begins to be rejected by the body. And if the uterus has the ability to remove “unusable” tissues, then other organs susceptible to adenomyosis do not have this opportunity. As a result, they swell and put pressure on the nerve endings, causing acute pain.

Heavy monthly bleeding is explained by the fact that the amount of excess uterine lining increases with adenomyosis. Subsequently, this “ballast” is thrown directly into the uterine cavity and provokes an increase in the volume of discharge.

Pain during menstruation becomes especially acute in the first day - this means that the rounded uterus is trying to get rid of excess endometrium. Depending on the location of the uterus, pain can be felt in different parts of the body. So, if the endometrium has spread in one of the uterine angles, the discomfort will be localized in the groin area. The affected cervix will make itself felt by pain in the area of ​​the rectum or vagina.

Symptoms of the anomaly

A spherical uterus does not always make its presence known in the female body. Sometimes the pathology is asymptomatic, and a woman may not even be aware of the presence of problems with the shape of the reproductive organ. However, in advanced cases, the following alarming symptoms may appear:

  • Heavy bleeding during menstruation. A very characteristic sign of adenomyosis. In addition to the completely natural feeling of discomfort about this, a woman runs the risk of developing anemia, which is fraught with subsequent complications. Women with advanced stages of adenomyosis are especially at risk.
  • Brownish spotting between periods. Some women mistake them for the beginning of menstruation. But such a discharge can cause anemia.
  • Painful sensations during intimacy. Otherwise, this not the most pleasant phenomenon is called dyspareunia. This circumstance often becomes the cause of physiological and psychological problems in the intimate life of sexual partners. Pain during sex is one of the most common reasons that brings a woman to see a gynecologist.
  • Pain immediately before, during and after the end of menstruation. Many women consider pain before and during menstruation to be an absolutely normal, typical phenomenon. This position is fundamentally wrong. Pain, especially sharp and prolonged pain, is a serious reason to consult a specialist.
  • Disruptions in the menstrual cycle. Usually with adenomyosis it becomes shorter than usual.
  • During a gynecological examination, the doctor diagnoses an enlarged uterus. This can easily be detected by palpation of the uterus by a gynecologist.

Important! Very often, the symptoms of adenomyosis are confused with manifestations of other gynecological diseases. To exclude all possible unfavorable options and diagnose pathology, you must immediately contact a gynecologist if you discover one or more alarming signs.

Diagnosis of a globular uterus

Ultrasound is considered the main method for diagnosing adenomyosis. Using this study, the size of the reproductive organ, its structure, the boundaries of the endometrium and myometrium are determined. Also, a similar method allows you to determine the degree of germination of the mucous membrane into the uterus. The accuracy of the results is about 90%.

An examination by a gynecologist can also confirm that the patient has a round uterus. The size of the organ varies from normal to atypical (corresponding to 6-8 weeks of gestation). The surface of the organ is uneven, touching certain places can cause pain.

For a more accurate diagnosis, a hysteroscopy procedure can be used. Its essence is the introduction of a specialized device into the uterine cavity. In this case, the walls of the organ are visualized from the inside and the doctor has the opportunity to assess the extent of the pathology, take a tissue sample for a biopsy, or carry out therapeutic measures (cauterization of inflammation, removal of polyps, etc.).

Colposcopy is one of the methods for diagnosing and treating adenomyosis

In some cases, the doctor hesitates in making a diagnosis, since adenomyosis is similar in symptoms to uterine fibroids. To finally verify the correctness of the diagnosis, the patient may be sent for a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedure.

Treatment methods for adenomyosis

According to medical research, the shape of the uterus and the ability to get pregnant are not directly related. In other words, adenomyosis itself is not considered a cause of infertility. But often the germination of the endometrium is accompanied by additional complications (fibroids or endometriosis), which can become an obstacle to the desired pregnancy. Cured adenomyosis increases the possibility of conception by 30-60%. If there are no complications throughout the pregnancy, a woman with a spherical uterus can safely give birth naturally. The only complication may be the risk of uterine bleeding.

Treatment of a uterus that has taken on an atypical shape is carried out in the following ways:

  • Taking hormonal drugs. With their help, an artificial menopause is created. Upon completion of the treatment course, there is a risk of re-growth of the endometrium. Therefore, the doctor selects hormonal medications for the patient with the optimal dosage for continuous use. Modern treatments of this type cause virtually no damage to the female body.
  • Embolization of the uterine arteries. Helps improve blood circulation in organ tissues.
  • Surgical intervention. It is recommended to eliminate the affected tissue areas, nodes, or the entire organ as a whole.

Possible consequences, complications

Adenomyosis that is not detected and treated in time can lead to unpleasant consequences and provoke complications in the functioning of the reproductive organs. In particular, the consequences may be as follows:

  • Iron-deficiency anemia;
  • development of endometriosis into a malignant tumor;
  • infertility.

Adenomyosis can cause infertility

Adenomyosis is a serious pathology of the female reproductive system. To prevent uterine deformation and further problems, a woman needs to carefully monitor her reproductive health. Regular visits to the gynecologist, proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle are mandatory.

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