Determinants of adenomyosis in women who underwent hysterectomy for benign gynecological conditions: Results from a prospective multicentric study in Italy

Abstract 

Objective

We conducted a cross-sectional study on the frequency and risk factors for adenomyosis in women who underwent hysterectomy for benign gynecological conditions.

Study design

All women who consecutively underwent hysterectomy during the study period for benign gynecological conditions at 18 gynecological departments were eligible for the study. A total of 820 women entered the study. Pathological data were collected prospectically.

Results

Adenomyosis was identified in 231 women (28.2%, 95% confidence interval, CI, 24.6–32.5). The frequency of adenomyosis was similar in women with indication for surgery fibroids/menorrhagia (143 cases, 28.5%) or genital prolapse (69 cases, 28.2%). The rate ratio (RR) of adenomyosis was 1.9 (95% CI 1.2–2.8) in women reporting one or more induced abortions, in comparison with those reporting no induced abortion. Women with adenomyosis reported more frequently dysmenorrhoea and chronic pelvic pain, but not dyspareunia.

Conclusions

This study shows that adenomyosis is common in women who undergo hysterectomy and that it is more frequent among women reporting induced abortions dysmenorrhoea and chronic pelvic pain.

Keywords: Adenomyosis, Epidemiology, Risk factor