Can You Have Endometriosis Without Adenomyosis or Vice Versa?
Endometriosis and adenomyosis are related but separate conditions. It is possible to have one without the other.
Adenomyosis happens when endometrial-like tissue grows into the muscular walls of the uterus. Endometriosis happens when that tissue grows outside the uterus, such as on the ovaries, bladder, or bowel.
We often see them together, but not always. Some patients have adenomyosis without pelvic endometriosis. Others have endometriosis without any sign of adenomyosis. In fact, some younger patients are diagnosed with isolated adenomyosis early on, even if imaging is not definitive.
Advanced adenomyosis can still be a sign that something more is happening in the pelvis. Even when imaging does not show endometriosis clearly, a uterus that appears abnormal can be a clue.
Learn more about how adenomyosis and endometriosis differ and what it means for diagnosis and treatment planning.
