What it is
The cause is not fully understood. Symptoms usually ease after the menopause.
Treatment depends on symptoms and on whether you want to become pregnant: pain relief, hormonal treatments such as the hormonal coil or the pill, and in some cases surgery, including hysterectomy.
Common signs
- Heavy periods
- Painful periods, sometimes severe
- Pelvic pain or pressure, pain during sex
- Some people have no symptoms
How it is usually diagnosed
- A pelvic ultrasound, often transvaginal
- An MRI scan in some cases
- Blood tests for anaemia if periods are heavy
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Ultrasound and MRI reports
- A period diary showing bleeding and pain
- Blood counts and ferritin results
- Gynaecology letters and the treatments you have tried
Questions to ask your doctor
- Which treatment options suit me, given my plans for children?
- Could I also have endometriosis or fibroids?
- Should my iron levels be checked?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Very heavy bleeding with dizziness, fainting or a racing heart
- Sudden severe pelvic pain
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.