What are the differences between adenomyosis and endometriosis?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Adenomyosis and endometriosis are related gynecological conditions in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows in abnormal locations. The key difference: adenomyosis develops within the muscular wall of the uterus, while endometriosis grows outside the uterus, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvic lining. Both can cause pelvic pain, heavy periods, and fertility issues, but they require different diagnostic approaches and treatments.

If you're experiencing symptoms like chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, or unusual bleeding, don't guess what's causing them. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to get personalized insights based on your specific symptoms. It only takes a few minutes, requires no sign-up, and can help you understand possible causes and prepare informed questions for your doctor—so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Adenomyosis and endometriosis are two conditions that involve the growth of tissue similar to the lining of the uterus, but they occur in different locations.

Adenomyosis happens when this tissue grows into the muscle wall of the uterus. This can make the uterus larger and can cause heavy periods and pain.
Endometriosis, on the other hand, occurs when this tissue grows outside the uterus, such as on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or other organs in the pelvis. This can also cause pain, especially during periods, and may lead to fertility problems.

Both conditions share some symptoms, like pelvic pain and heavy menstrual bleeding, but their locations and effects on the body are different. Understanding these differences is important for diagnosis and treatment. If you're experiencing pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, or other concerning symptoms, you can use Ubie's free AI-powered symptom checker to help identify possible causes and determine if you should see a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and management.

(References)

Donnez J, Stratopoulou CA, & Dolmans MM. (2024). Endometriosis and adenomyosis: Similarities and differences. Best practice & research. Clinical obstetrics & gynaecology, 38103509.
Bulun SE, Yildiz S, Adli M, Chakravarti D, Parker JB, Milad M, et al. (2023). Endometriosis and adenomyosis: shared pathophysiology. Fertility and sterility, 36925057.
Maruyama S, Imanaka S, Nagayasu M, Kimura M, & Kobayashi H. (2020). Relationship between adenomyosis and endometriosis. European journal of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive biology, 32877772.

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