ADENOMYOSIS
Nonsurgical Treatments for Adenomyosis
While adenomyosis can only be treated with a minimally invasive hysterectomy, its symptoms can sometimes be temporarily managed using nonsurgical methods. These methods may include pain management, acupuncture, pelvic floor physical therapy, nutritional counseling, psychotherapy and physical training.
The CIGC Wellness Center offers these alternative treatments as a complement to CIGC’s minimally invasive surgical procedures. For women with adenomyosis who are not yet finished with childbearing, a holistic treatment plan from the Wellness Center may be effective in helping them to manage their symptoms until they are ready to undergo surgery.
Award-winning laparoscopic specialist Dr. Natalya Danilyants, CIGC co-founder, calls on her more than two decades of gynecological expertise to lead The CIGC Wellness Center. After a thorough evaluation of your particular case, she will recommend a treatment plan that is customized to your individual needs.
Treating Adenomyosis Without Surgery
Adenomyosis cannot be fully treated without surgery. However, mild symptoms may be temporarily managed with some nonsurgical options. Because the condition gets worse over time, surgery will likely become necessary.
Adenomyosis causes thickening of the uterine wall that ultimately leads to an enlarged uterus. As the condition progresses, symptoms like heavy bleeding can become life-threatening. When a patient reaches this point, nonsurgical management methods will be ineffective. In all cases of adenomyosis, it’s best to be evaluated by a specialist to determine when surgery will be needed.
For adenomyosis patients who wish to become pregnant, surgery can be postponed and symptoms can be managed as long as the condition is mild. CIGC has specialists who are experts in nonsurgical management for adenomyosis. These care providers are highly skilled in treating adenomyosis patients who wish to learn how to manage their symptoms in order to retain fertility options for as long as possible.
Physical Therapy
Pelvic pain is a common symptom of adenomyosis due to the increased levels of inflammation in the uterus. Pain in the pelvis and lower back can be relieved through pelvic floor physical therapy, which incorporates relaxation exercises, soft tissue stretching, biofeedback therapy and additional physical therapy techniques. Other types of physical therapy that may help alleviate adenomyosis symptoms include:
- Acupuncture – a safe method for relieving symptoms of painful periods and reducing pain-related anxiety
- Heat therapy – a method to ease cramping and alleviate pelvic pain
- Myofascial release – a technique used to break up soft tissue adhesions that may be contributing to pelvic pain
Pain Management
Because adenomyosis can cause near-constant pain, learning how to manage that pain can go a long way toward managing the condition overall. Pain management specialists at CIGC’s Wellness Center are committed to non-opioid medication management to help patients find relief from chronic pain. A treatment plan focused on pain management may include techniques like trigger-point injections, which can ease pain in the pelvis and lower back.
Medication
In some cases, certain medications may help to alleviate pain caused by adenomyosis. Some commonly prescribed medications include:
- Birth control pills
- Depo-Provera
- Mirena IUD (intrauterine device)
These hormonal suppression medications are not always effective, but they may help relieve painful symptoms in mild cases of adenomyosis.
Diet and Supplements
When researching nonsurgical management methods for adenomyosis, you may find nutrition and diet plans that claim to cure the condition. Due to the large amount of false information out there, it’s important to discuss evidence-backed treatment plans with your doctor. At The CIGC Wellness Center, our nutritionists will work with you to develop a personalized nutrition plan that is customized to your individual case. A sample nutrition plan for adenomyosis may include:
- Anti-inflammatory foods: Foods like green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, olive oil, fatty fish, fruits and certain types of nuts are the pillars of an anti-inflammatory diet.
- Anti-inflammatory supplements: Certain supplements (such as turmeric, fish oil and ginger) have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Reducing inflammation in the body through diet and supplements may have a positive effect on pain and cramping.
- Hormone-regulating supplements: Supplements like biotin, Diindolylmethane (DIM) and some herbal supplements are thought to regulate hormone levels in the body. Lowering elevated levels of estrogen can help to reduce adenomyosis symptoms.
For women with mild cases of adenomyosis, these diets and supplements may help to alleviate some symptoms. But it’s important to find the right combination of ingredients and vitamins for the best chance of symptom relief. A holistic treatment plan developed by an adenomyosis specialist can set you on the most effective path.
Speak with an Expert
For the best way to find relief from adenomyosis, consult with a specialist about your condition. The adenomyosis specialists at CIGC can help you find the best treatment option for you. Talk to our patient care team to get started on your pain relief journey today.
