April is Adenomyosis Awareness month and we wanted to highlight this lesser-known gynaecological condition
Adenomyosis is where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows into the muscular wall of the uterus (the myometrium).
Different to Endometriosis, where the uterine lining tissue may migrate outside the uterus and create lesions or adhesions to other structures inside the pelvis such as bladder, bowel and ovaries.
Adenomyosis is estimated to affect 20–35% of women, yet its exact cause remains unclear.
More common after uterine procedures such as caesarean births or pregnancy terminations, where uterine lining cells may move into the muscle of the uterus. Other risk factors include longer exposure to oestrogen, earlier onset of periods, shorter menstrual cycles, and heavier body weight.
How do I know if I have Adenomyosis?
It can lead to symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, clotty, painful periods, chronic pelvic pain, and uterine enlargement. Look for these symptoms that are persistent and disrupting your day to day function or attempts to conceive.
Endometriosis Australia is an excellent resource for those struggling with Adenomyosis.
The first step is medical assessment and management and may include hormonal therapy or surgery. Women may also seek complementary approaches to manage symptoms alongside conventional care.
Acupuncture and Adenomyosis: What the Evidence Suggests
Acupuncture is frequently used to support women with adenomyosis, particularly for pain and cycle-related symptoms. Findings from The Acupuncture Evidence Project and evidence-based acupuncture research help explain how acupuncture may assist symptom management.
Key Mechanisms of Acupuncture
Pain modulation
Acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals, which may help reduce menstrual and pelvic pain.Reduced inflammation
Research shows acupuncture can influence inflammatory pathways, relevant for chronic pain conditions.Improved blood flow
Acupuncture increases local circulation to targeted areas, which may help ease pelvic congestion and discomfort.Nervous system regulation
Acupuncture activates the parasympathetic nervous system, supporting relaxation, stress reduction, and digestive function, all of which can influence pain perception.Fascial and muscular release
Needling can help reduce tension in pelvic and abdominal tissues, improving mobility and reducing pain linked to chronic guarding.
TCM's perspective on Adenomyosis
In TCM, adenomyosis is commonly associated with blood stasis. This means where circulation in the pelvic region is congested, showing up as pain, pressure, and heavy bleeding. Treatment principles focus on improving circulation, reducing pain, and addressing underlying contributing patterns such as cold or deficiency in the lower abdomen.
To read more about Cold Abdomen or Cold Uterus in TCM, click here.
Chinese Herbal Medicine and Adenomyosis
Herbs are prescribed in personalised formulas, by an experienced and registered Chinese herbal medicine practitioner. Commonly used classical formulas include:
Shao Fu Zhu Yu Tang
Traditionally used for lower abdominal pain associated with cold, to ease cramping pain and improve menstrual comfort.
Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan
Used for conditions involving masses, pain, and heavy bleeding, when there is significant pelvic discomfort or clotting.
Using TCM as Part of a Broader Treatment Plan
TCM does not replace medical care for adenomyosis, but consider using it alongside gynaecological management to focus on symptom relief.
Consultation with an AHPRA qualified practitioner is essential to ensure treatment is appropriate and tailored to individual needs.
Additional reading:
Adenomysosis - sister to endometriosis? or distant cousin? By Dr Jason Abbott
