The femme Journal
Adenomyosis: What It Is, How It Differs from Endometriosis; How to Manage Symptoms
Adenomyosis is a lesser-known but equally challenging condition that affects many women, often going undiagnosed for years. It can cause heavy, painful periods, bloating, and discomfort that significantly impact daily life. But what exactly is adenomyosis, how does it differ from endometriosis, and what can you do to manage the pain—including the role of nutrition in symptom relief? Let’s break it down. What Is Adenomyosis? Adenomyosis occurs when the tissue that normally lines the uterus (endometrial tissue) grows into the muscular wall of the uterus. Each month, this misplaced tissue thickens, breaks down, and bleeds just like the uterine lining—but because it's trapped within the muscle, it causes inflammation, swelling, and pain. Common Symptoms of Adenomyosis 🔹 Heavy, prolonged periods – You might experience severe bleeding that lasts longer than usual.🔹 Intense cramping and pelvic pain – The pain can be deep, aching, and sometimes constant.🔹 Bloating ("adenobelly") – Many women report a swollen, tender abdomen, especially before or during their period.🔹 Painful sex (dyspareunia) – Intercourse may be uncomfortable due to increased uterine sensitivity.🔹 Pressure on the bladder or rectum – This can cause frequent urination or bowel discomfort. Adenomyosis vs. Endometriosis: What’s the Difference? Adenomyosis and endometriosis are often confused, as both involve endometrial-like tissue growing outside its usual place. However, they affect the body differently: Feature Adenomyosis Endometriosis Where it grows Within the muscle of the uterus Outside the uterus (e.g., ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel) Main symptom Heavy periods, deep pelvic pain Pain throughout the cycle, infertility Diagnosis Often diagnosed via ultrasound or MRI Usually diagnosed through laparoscopy Common in Women over 30, often after childbirth Women of reproductive age, often starting in teens Treatment Symptom management, hormonal therapy, hysterectomy (in severe cases) Hormonal therapy, surgery (laparoscopy, excision) While both conditions can co-exist, they require different treatment approaches. If you suspect you have adenomyosis, a proper diagnosis is key to managing your symptoms effectively. The Role of Nutrition in Managing Adenomyosis Symptoms Diet plays a huge role in reducing inflammation, balancing hormones, and easing adenomyosis-related pain. While no single diet can "cure" adenomyosis, making the right food choices can help improve symptoms. Foods That Help 🥦 Anti-Inflammatory Foods – Leafy greens, berries, turmeric, and oily fish (like salmon) can help reduce inflammation. 🥑 Healthy Fats – Avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil support hormone balance. 🥩 Iron-Rich Foods – If heavy periods leave you feeling drained, load up on iron-rich foods like red meat, lentils, and spinach to prevent anaemia. 🍊 Vitamin C – Helps the body absorb iron and supports the immune system. Found in citrus fruits, bell peppers, and strawberries. 🫘 Fibre-Rich Foods – Whole grains, legumes, and vegetables support gut health and help your body eliminate excess oestrogen, which may play a role in adenomyosis. Foods to Reduce or Avoid ❌ Ultra-Processed Foods – Sugary snacks, fast food, and refined carbs can increase inflammation. ❌ Dairy & Red Meat (in excess) – Some studies suggest they may contribute to higher oestrogen levels, which could worsen symptoms for some women. ❌ Caffeine & Alcohol – These can trigger inflammation and worsen bloating or cramping. Other Ways to Manage Adenomyosis Symptoms Beyond nutrition, there are other ways to help manage adenomyosis pain and discomfort: 💊 Hormonal Treatments – Birth control pills, hormonal IUDs, and progesterone therapy can help reduce bleeding and pain. 🛀 Heat Therapy – A hot water bottle or warm bath can soothe cramping and pelvic pain. 🧘 Exercise & Movement – Gentle activities like yoga, Pilates, and walking can improve circulation and ease muscle tension. 🫂 Pelvic Physiotherapy – Helps strengthen and relax pelvic muscles, reducing pain. 🌿 Supplements – Magnesium can help with muscle relaxation, and omega-3s may reduce inflammation. Always check with a healthcare professional before adding supplements. 🏥 Surgical Options – In severe cases, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be recommended if other treatments fail. Final Thoughts Adenomyosis is often misunderstood, but with the right approach, symptoms can be managed. Whether through dietary changes, lifestyle adjustments, or medical interventions, finding what works for your body is key. If you're struggling with heavy periods, chronic pain, or bloating, don’t ignore your symptoms—advocate for yourself and seek medical advice. Have you found any tips or treatments that help with adenomyosis? Let’s keep the conversation going— join us at @femmehealthstore to share your story! 💜
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Accelerate Action: Amplifying Women's Voices for Change
I had the most incredible experience recently, chatting with nine remarkable women to discuss how we can truly accelerate action and progress for women everywhere. As I listened to their stories and insights, I was struck by the common threads that emerged - the shared challenges we face and the powerful solutions we can create together.
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The Truth About Period Products: What Are The Alternatives?
When it comes to what we put into our bodies, you’d think that essential items like tampons would be held to the highest safety standards. Shockingly, that’s not the case. According to Maisie Hill in her book Period Power, hamster food has stricter labelling regulations than tampons. This raises the question: do we really know what’s in our period products? The Hidden Ingredients in Tampons Most mainstream tampons are made from a combination of cotton, rayon, and synthetic fibres. While this might sound harmless, the reality is far from it. Conventional cotton is one of the most pesticide-intensive crops in the world, meaning that trace amounts of harmful chemicals can end up in tampons. Additionally, rayon and other synthetic materials are often bleached with chlorine, which can create dioxins—chemicals that have been linked to hormone disruption and even cancer. Fragrance is another concern. Some tampons contain artificial fragrances, which may include phthalates—compounds that have been connected to reproductive and developmental harm. Since the vaginal wall is highly absorbent, these chemicals can enter the bloodstream quickly. With all of this in mind, switching to organic and sustainable period products is an easy way to protect your health while also being kinder to the planet. Sustainable Period Products: What Are Your Options? The good news is that there are plenty of alternatives to traditional period products that are kinder to our bodies and the environment. Here’s a breakdown of the most sustainable choices: 1. Organic Tampons and Pads Unlike conventional tampons and pads, organic options are made from 100% organic cotton, which is free from pesticides, chlorine bleach, and synthetic fragrances. They work just like regular tampons and pads but without the harmful chemicals. Plus, many brands now offer biodegradable options, reducing their environmental impact. 2. Reusable Cloth Pads Reusable pads are a fantastic alternative to disposable ones. Made from soft, absorbent fabric, they are designed to be washed and reused for years. Not only do they prevent waste, but they also save money in the long run. With a range of sizes and absorbencies available, reusable pads cater to all types of flow. 3. Period Pants Period underwear is designed to absorb menstrual blood without the need for additional products. These leak-proof, washable pants can hold the equivalent of several tampons’ worth of blood, making them a convenient and eco-friendly option. They’re perfect for overnight use or as a backup to other products. 4. Menstrual Cups (Moon Cups) Menstrual cups are small, flexible cups made of medical-grade silicone that are inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood. They can be worn for up to 12 hours and last for several years, making them one of the most sustainable and cost-effective choices. While they can take some getting used to, many users find them more comfortable and convenient than traditional tampons. Why Choose Sustainable Period Products? Switching to sustainable period products is beneficial for both your health and the environment. By choosing organic and reusable options, you can avoid exposure to harmful chemicals, reduce waste, and save money over time. With so many great options available, making the switch is easier than ever. Your period products shouldn’t be a mystery. If hamster food has stricter labelling laws, isn’t it time we demand the same transparency for the products we use on and in our bodies? Choose sustainable, safe options and take control of your period—naturally.
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How to Improve Sleep Quality Throughout your Cycle
For many women between the ages of 30 and 45, sleep can sometimes feel elusive. Whether you’re juggling work, family, social commitments, or managing your health, it’s easy to feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day. Here’s why sleep is so important for women, how our sleep patterns change throughout our monthly cycle and through to menopause, and practical tips to improve your sleep quality.
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hCG in Blood: How Pregnancy Testing Works & Why Blood Tests Are More Accurate
hCG in Blood: How Pregnancy Testing Works & Why Blood Tests Are More Accurate Pregnancy tests are an essential tool for confirming pregnancy, and they work by detecting the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). This hormone is produced by the placenta shortly after a fertilised egg implants in the uterus. While both urine and blood tests can detect hCG, blood tests are significantly more accurate. Let’s explore why. What is hCG? Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone that plays a vital role in pregnancy. It is secreted by cells in the developing placenta and helps maintain the corpus luteum, which in turn supports progesterone production to sustain the pregnancy. hCG levels rise rapidly in early pregnancy, doubling approximately every 48–72 hours. How Pregnancy Tests Work Pregnancy tests, whether at-home urine tests or laboratory blood tests, work by detecting hCG. However, the method of detection and accuracy differ between the two types of tests. Urine Pregnancy Tests Urine pregnancy tests are the most commonly used home-based tests. They work by detecting hCG in urine through a chemical reaction that produces a visible indicator, such as a line or a digital readout. Pros: Convenient, affordable, and provide quick results. Cons: Less sensitive, may yield false negatives if taken too early or if urine is diluted. Blood Pregnancy Tests Blood pregnancy tests are performed normally in a medical setting and can detect much lower levels of hCG compared to urine tests. However, the NG Precision all in one pregnancy test can now be used at home. There are two types: Qualitative hCG Blood Test – This test simply confirms whether hCG is present or not, much like a urine test. Quantitative hCG Blood Test (Beta hCG Test) – This test measures the exact amount of hCG in the blood, allowing doctors to track pregnancy progression and detect potential complications. Why Are Blood Tests More Accurate? Blood tests provide greater accuracy for several reasons: Earlier Detection: Blood tests can detect hCG as early as 6–8 days after ovulation, whereas urine tests typically require higher levels of hCG and may not be reliable until after a missed period. Lower False Negative Rate: Since blood tests can detect smaller amounts of hCG, they are less likely to produce false negatives compared to urine tests. Monitoring Pregnancy Health: Quantitative hCG blood tests can help track the progression of pregnancy and identify potential issues such as ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage. (This is done within a medical setting) Conclusion While at-home urine pregnancy tests are convenient and widely used, blood tests offer a higher level of accuracy, earlier detection, and better monitoring of pregnancy progression. If you need confirmation or suspect a pregnancy but receive a negative urine test, a blood test can provide a definitive answer. The all in one at home blood pregnancy test can be used at any time and anywhere, you no longer need to wait for your morning urine.
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Basal Body Temperature Tracking: A Complete Guide for Fertility Tracking
If you’re trying to conceive or simply want to understand your cycle better, basal body temperature (BBT) tracking is a powerful tool. By monitoring small shifts in your temperature each morning, you can pinpoint ovulation and gain insights into your reproductive health. However, traditional BBT tracking methods come with challenges—this is where Tempdrop offers a game-changing solution.
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Why Do We Crave Pizza During Our Period? Here's the Science Behind It
If you’ve ever found yourself longing for a cheesy slice of pizza while on your period, you’re definitely not alone. Many people experience specific cravings around that time of the month, and pizza is one of the top contenders. But what’s really going on in your body that makes pizza seem like the ultimate comfort food when Aunt Flo arrives?
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Understanding Intimacy: How Emotional, Physical, and Psychological Connections Differ Between Men and Women
Intimacy is a deep emotional, physical, or psychological connection between individuals that fosters closeness, trust, and a sense of shared understanding. It often involves vulnerability, openness, and the willingness to share parts of oneself that are not readily visible to others. Intimacy can be broken down into several forms, such as emotional, physical, intellectual, and spiritual intimacy, and is a key component of healthy relationships.
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Stress: Why Women Experience It and How to Destress Naturally
Stress can feel overwhelming, especially for women who juggle multiple roles and responsibilities. From hormonal fluctuations to societal pressures, women often face unique stressors. In this blog, we explore why women experience stress more than men and share practical, natural ways to manage it. Learn how practices like mindfulness, exercise, and nutrition can help, and discover how Vida Glow’s Destress Supplements can support your journey toward a calmer, more balanced life. Prioritise your well-being and take control of stress with these effective strategies.
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In The Press
Simplify Your Fertility Tracking with Tempdrop
Take the guesswork out of cycle tracking with Tempdrop, the smart wearable thermometer that fits seamlessly into your routine. Designed to learn your unique patterns, it provides accurate, reliable insights without the hassle of early wake-ups or daily charts.
