What is adenomyosis? A plain definition

Q: Does adenomyosis go away after menopause?

Symptoms most often go away after menopause. Talk with your doctor about what to expect for you.

What is adenomyosis?

Adenomyosis is a condition in which tissue from the inner lining of the uterus (the endometrium) grows into the muscle wall, and the wall thickens¹. Many people have no symptoms. When symptoms happen, they can include heavy or long periods, periods that become more painful, and pain during sex¹.

A plain-language definition from the ProcedurePath glossary.

Written and reviewed by Varun Danda, MD, interventional radiology resident physician · Last reviewed October 25, 2026

How it is found

Ultrasound may not give a clear answer. MRI can help tell adenomyosis apart from fibroids and is often used when ultrasound is not enough. The only way to confirm it for certain is to examine the uterus after it has been removed¹.

Adenomyosis and fibroids

A fibroid is a separate growth of muscle tissue. In adenomyosis, lining tissue spreads into the muscle wall itself. The symptoms can overlap, so imaging is often needed to tell them apart. Symptoms of adenomyosis most often go away after menopause¹.

Common question

Does adenomyosis go away after menopause?

Symptoms most often go away after menopause¹. Talk with your doctor about what to expect for you.

Talk with your doctor before you decide. This information does not replace personal medical advice. Read the medical disclaimer.

Sources

MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia, adenomyosis ↩︎