Seeing Is Believing: The Benefits of Ultrasound for Patients and Providers

Heavy Periods

Heavy Periods? It Might Be Adenomyosis!

April 16, 20253 min read

Heavy Periods? It Might Be Adenomyosis!

If your period is so heavy that you’re doubling up on pads, canceling plans, or feeling wiped out for days, it’s not just a nuisance, it’s a signal. And one possible cause? Something called adenomyosis.

Here at Atlanta Ultrasound, we’ve walked with so many women in the Atlanta area who thought their period pain was just “normal.” But it’s not. And there’s help.

Let’s talk about what adenomyosis is, how to spot it, and how an ultrasound can help you get answers gently and clearly.

Heavy Period pain

What Is Adenomyosis?

Adenomyosis (say it with us: ad-uh-no-my-O-sis) happens when the tissue that normally lines your uterus (endometrium) starts growing into the muscular wall of the uterus.

This makes the uterus thicker, more tender, and more prone to heavy bleeding and cramping.

It’s kind of like trying to run a smooth engine that has oil in the wrong places—your body knows something’s off.

Adenomyosis

Common Symptoms of Adenomyosis

You might have adenomyosis if you experience:

  • Heavy or prolonged periods (changing pads every hour isn’t normal)

  • Severe cramps that don’t improve with regular pain relief

  • Pelvic pressure or bloating

  • Pain during intercourse

  • Spotting between periods

  • Fatigue or anemia due to blood loss

And sometimes… you may have no symptoms at all. That’s why gentle imaging is so important.

So How Can Ultrasound Help?

Ultrasound is one of the first steps in evaluating whether your uterus shows signs of adenomyosis. At Atlanta Ultrasound, we use transvaginal or pelvic ultrasound to take clear, real-time images of your uterus.

We’re looking for:

  • A bulky or enlarged uterus

  • Thickening of the uterine walls

  • Shadowing or streaky textures in the muscle

  • Cysts or pockets in the tissue

    These clues help your doctor piece together the full picture and rule out other conditions like fibroids or endometriosis.

What’s the Difference Between Adenomyosis and Fibroids?

Great question—because they often get confused!

  • Fibroids are firm, round growths that form on or inside the uterus.

  • Adenomyosis involves the lining of the uterus growing into the uterine muscle.

  • Both can cause heavy bleeding and pain, but they’re treated differently. That’s why getting the right diagnosis matters.

What Comes Next?

If your ultrasound shows signs of adenomyosis, your provider may:

  • Recommend hormonal treatments (like IUDs or birth control pills)

  • Suggest anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain

  • Offer iron supplements if you’re low on blood

  • In more severe cases, discuss surgical options or refer you to a gynecologist

    Whatever your path, we’re right here beside you.

You're Not Overreacting. You're Not Alone.

At Atlanta Ultrasound, we believe your pain is real, your story matters, and you deserve answers.

For those seeking expert ultrasound services, Atlanta Ultrasound offers quick, efficient, and comprehensive scans. Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to providing you with the clarity and care you need.

Contact us today to schedule your ultrasound scan and take a decisive step towards understanding your health.

📍 Multiple locations in Metro Atlanta, GA

📞 Contact: 678-590-3300

🌐 Website: www.atlantaultrasound.com

Disclaimer: The content of this blog post, authored by a sonographer, is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, nor should it substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health concerns.





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Bridgette Hannigan

Bridgette has worked in Ultrasound doing Clinical Research studies, Primary Care and Cardiology departments. She is the founder of Atlanta Ultrasound, serving those who are uninsured and underinsured in the metro area

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