What is a common initial step for treating the symptoms of adenomyosis aside from surgery?

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used as an initial step to treat the symptoms of adenomyosis, primarily for their effectiveness in alleviating pain and reducing inflammation associated with the condition. Adenomyosis can lead to significant discomfort, including pelvic pain and heavy menstrual bleeding. NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can diminish the severity of symptoms by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for generating inflammation and pain.

While other options such as antibiotics and antidepressants may play a role in treating different conditions or associated symptoms, they do not specifically target the inflammatory and painful symptoms directly caused by adenomyosis. Antibiotics would be ineffective unless there was an underlying infection, and antidepressants may be used for associated mood disturbances but do not address the physical symptoms. Physical therapy could provide some benefit for pelvic pain, but it is not a primary treatment method for adenomyosis symptoms. Therefore, NSAIDs stand out as the most appropriate initial treatment for managing discomfort associated with adenomyosis.