What is the difference between endometriosis and adenomyosis?

I believe many women don’t know what endometriosis and adenomyosis are. In fact, both diseases are gynecological diseases caused by endometriosis growth. Therefore, these two diseases have certain similarities. Only accurate distinction and identification can lead to correct treatment without delaying the disease. So, what is the difference between adenomyosis and endometriosis?

(1) Endometriosis mainly occurs in the ovaries, and the main clinical symptoms include progressively worsening dysmenorrhea, increased menstrual volume, prolonged menstrual period, and discomfort during sexual intercourse. The occurrence of endometriosis is closely related to retrograde menstruation, so women should avoid sexual activity and menstrual manipulation during menstruation.

(2) Adenomyosis is mainly caused by the invasion of endometrial glands into the myometrium, which manifests as heavy menstrual flow and prolonged menstrual period. The pain usually begins one week before menstruation and lasts until the end of menstruation. During gynecological examination, the uterus may be uniformly enlarged or locally bulged, hard and tender.

(3) Both endometriosis and adenomyosis are caused by endometrial ectopic growth, and the two can coexist. However, the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and sensitivity to hormones of endometriosis and adenomyosis are different. The former is more sensitive to hormones, while the latter is not.