Adenomyosis if have pain almost daily?

I have been feeling ill past 5-6 months. Have gone to several doctors, and finally had a transvaginal ultrasound done which showed ovarian cysts (largest one size of golf ball). Was told cysts cannot make me feel sick though. Had laparoscopy and told things looked normal. But now am also told I may have adenomyosis (uterus is enlarged and having terrible pelvic/abdominal pain that is making me feel very sick all over). I am 46, had four successful pregnancies. I’ve always had very heavy periods, but never painful ones. I am confused really as to what I have, but have had endoscopy, upper GI, CT scan, etc. to rule out other things. I was prescribed Synarel to shrink the cysts, but am scared to start it because have read of terrible side effects. Was recommended an IUD or birth control pills for the possible adenomyosis. The pain is getting worse and am feeling so sick. Can adenomyosis cause pain like this that’s almost daily? Any thoughts on Synarel, IUD, and birth control pills? I have read that hysterectomy is really only “cure” for adenomyosis. Is some kind of surgery, either FAS or hysterectomy, usually only way to get rid of it? Thanks so much!

Dear Rhonda-
Thank you for your posting. Your symptoms sound classic for Adenomyosis. In nearly all traditional gynecological settings, the primary treatment for this disease is a hysterectomy. We do not advocate that position. It is true, that the only way to “cure” adeno is by removing the uterus, but the patient then can experience many post hysterectomy complications like bowel and bladder prolapse, hormone imbalance, depression and sexual dysfunction. We recommend the removal of the disease, in conjunction with laser treatment to the remaining uterine muscle. Our FAS laser technique has been very successful in eliminating heavy periods and pain.
This disease unfortunately requires surgical treatment.
All the other options you have been given will only treat the symptoms, and not effect the disease process. The adeno will continue to spread into the uterus increasing the pain and bleeding over time.
We recommend immediate treatment of this condition…the longer you wait the worse the symptoms will get.
We have helped many patients with this disease….I know FAS can help you.

I have been having extreme pain in lower left abdomen. I had a CT scan a few days ago and it showed fibroid tumors. Is there anything I can do with the pain. I feel tired and lethargic. I go for an ultra-sound tomorrow. It is necessary to do an ultra-sound plus a CT Scan?

Dear Srtogdon-
I am not sure why they are ordering more diagnostic tests…a CT Scan should have been sufficient. I would ask your doctor.
Fibroids are usually painless unless they are pressing on pelvic or back nerves…in either case, fibroids are a surgical condition..I would recommend removing them.

I have had pelvic pain for 3 years now. I have also undergone numerous surgeries. Removal of an ovary, appendics, fibroids, endometriosis and myomectomy and HSG performed. I have been prescribed birth control pills, lupron, steroids, pain medications, and now prometrium and physical therapy. I am still experiencing alot of pain. I have severe cramping during menses and pain during intercourse. I have been told the only option I have left is a hysterectomy. I am running out of options. I need an alternative method before hysterectomy. What are my options?

Dear CAC-
Your condition is classic for Adenomyosis…most traditional physicians will only offer hysterectomy once they have diagnosed this condition.
We are the only practice, we are aware of, that will peform laser surgery on the uterus to remove and treat adenomyosis. This is not a curable condition….but the symptoms can be considerably mitigated and patients can return to a normal lifestyle.
Please contact me office for further information regarding the program.