Assisted Reproduction Solutions for Patients with Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis is a gynecological condition that affects many women of reproductive age. Fortunately, assisted reproduction offers hope and solutions for those who wish to become mothers. In this article, we focus on providing fertility solutions for adenomyosis, offering a ray of hope through advanced medical science.

Causes of Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis occurs when endometrial tissue, which normally lines the uterus, becomes embedded within the uterine muscle. This displacement can cause thickening of the uterus, leading to painful and heavy menstruation.

From a fertility perspective, adenomyosis can be a barrier, as it affects uterine functionality and may interfere with embryo implantation.

Although the exact cause of adenomyosis remains uncertain, several factors have been identified that may contribute to its development:

1. Previous uterine trauma: Procedures such as C-sections, uterine surgeries, or dilation and curettage (D&C) may facilitate the intrusion of endometrial tissue into the uterine muscle.
2. Hormonal activity: The condition is linked to hormonal activity, especially estrogen. Hormonal fluctuations may stimulate abnormal tissue growth.
3. Pelvic inflammation: Some studies suggest that inflammation in the pelvic area can induce changes that promote the development of adenomyosis.
4. Genetic factors: There may be a genetic predisposition that makes some women more prone to developing this condition.
5. Age and parity: Adenomyosis is commonly diagnosed in women aged 35 to 50 and is more frequent in women who have had multiple pregnancies.

Symptoms of Adenomyosis

The symptoms of adenomyosis can vary considerably from one woman to another, and in some cases, the condition may be asymptomatic. However, when symptoms are present, they may include:

1. Painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea): The pain is often described as more intense than regular menstrual cramps and may worsen over time.
2. Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia): Includes prolonged periods or excessive bleeding, sometimes with clots.
3. Chronic pelvic pain: May occur even outside of menstruation.
4. Pain during sexual intercourse: Especially deep pain during or after sex.
5. Dolor durante las relaciones sexuales: Especialmente dolor profundo durante o después del acto sexual.
6. Infertility or difficulty conceiving: While not all women with adenomyosis experience fertility issues, the condition can interfere with the ability to get pregnant or carry a pregnancy to term.

Diagnosis of adenomyosis is typically made through fertility assessment techniques such as transvaginal ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which allow visualization of the uterus’s internal structure and confirmation of endometrial tissue within the muscle.

It is essential for women with symptoms suggestive of adenomyosis to consult a reproductive health specialist to obtain an accurate diagnosis and discuss the most effective treatment options based on their individual case and reproductive goals.

Assisted Reproduction Options for People with Adenomyosis

For patients with adenomyosis, assisted reproduction offers a range of hopeful possibilities. Here are the most relevant options:

1. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): This technique is particularly beneficial, as it allows close monitoring of embryo development before transfer to the uterus. For women with adenomyosis, treatment can be personalized to increase the chances of successful implantation despite uterine complications.
2. Embryo Transfer: If you have already undergone an IVF cycle and have frozen embryos, you can use them for a new pregnancy attempt. This is a less invasive procedure than full IVF and can be a good option for women who have already gone through ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval.
3. Pre-IVF Hormonal Treatment: Since adenomyosis responds to estrogen, treatments to reduce hormonal levels before IVF may be effective. These treatments aim to create a more favorable uterine environment for embryo implantation.
4. Conservative Surgery: In some cases, surgery to remove areas affected by adenomyosis can improve the success rates of subsequent assisted reproduction. However, this option should be carefully considered, weighing the potential benefits and risks.

Adenomyosis is not a sentence of infertility. With the help of a fertility specialist and the various assisted reproduction options available, you can achieve your dream of becoming a mother. Don’t lose hope—keep moving forward on your path to parenthood.

Do you have any questions or need more information?

At Fertility Madrid, we specialise in treatments such as egg donation, in vitro fertilisation and artificial insemination, among others.

Please do not hesitate to contact our professionals at our fertility clinic and they will answer all your questions without obligation.