Internal endometriosis or adenomyosis is characterized by the presence of endometrial glands and stroma inside the uterine muscle (myometrium) (4).
Although this condition is usually asymptomatic, it can result in heavy bleeding during and between menstrual periods, pain during or outside of sexual intercourse, pelvic heaviness and even an impact on the digestive system.
Adenomyosis mostly develops after the age of 35-40, but it is not uncommon for women tobe affected at a younger age. It is rare however, for it to be diagnosed before the age of 20-25.
While the pathophysiology of adenomyosis is partially understood today, it is much harder to identify its causes.
Diagnosis by imaging can be made either by ultrasound performed by a referring specialist or pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).