What is adenomyosis? Pittsburgh area women, doctors aim to spread awareness - TribLIVE.com

What the report says

TribLIVE reported on Pittsburgh-area efforts to raise awareness of adenomyosis, a lesser-known uterine condition that can cause severe menstrual pain and heavy bleeding. The story centers on Andrea Murray, 40, of Harmony in Beaver County, who said debilitating pain began around age 15. She was diagnosed as a teenager with both endometriosis and adenomyosis and managed symptoms for years before choosing a hysterectomy in 2019, a decision she described as life-changing after years of worsening flare-ups and reduced quality of life.

Doctors quoted by TribLIVE explained that adenomyosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, while endometriosis involves such tissue outside the uterus. Dr. Nicole Donnellan of UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital said adenomyosis can be difficult to confirm without hysterectomy, though clinicians may use symptoms and exam findings to guide diagnosis. Dr. Lisa Hildenbrand of Independence Health System said common symptoms include heavy bleeding, severe cramps, pelvic pain and pain during intercourse.

The article also features Heather Abraham, host of KDKA’s “Talk Pittsburgh” and co-host of “Pittsburgh Today Live,” who told TribLIVE she received a suspected adenomyosis diagnosis before a hysterectomy in January 2025. Abraham, 42, of Bridgeville, said she had not previously known about the condition and felt relief after learning what might be causing worsening symptoms following her third C-section.

TribLIVE’s report underscores why awareness matters: treatment choices can be complicated for patients who want children, and doctors said the causes of adenomyosis remain unclear. Hormonal therapies may help manage symptoms, while hysterectomy is described as the main definitive surgical treatment.