# Uterus --- The **uterus** is a part of the [[female reproductive system]] where the baby grows during [[pregnancy]]. It sits above the [[vagina]] and opens into it through a structure called the [[cervix]]. On either side two **uterine tubes** stretch out to partially envelop the [[ovaries]], where they "catch" the ovulated oocyte with finger-like projections called fimbriae. Then the uterine tubes transport the oocyte to the uterus with a combination of cilia on the apical curves that wish the egg along as well as some [[peristalsis]] contractions. ![[uterus and ovaries.png]] >[!abstract] Eponym elimination >**Uterine tubes** are commonly referred to as Fallopian tubes, but that term is growing [[eponym elimination|out of favor]] ## Anatomy There are four main parts of the uterus, the **fundus** as the top, the main part or the **body**, the **isthmus** and the **cervix**. The tissue of the uterine wall in the body is made up of three layers, from outermost to innermost: the perimetrium, myometrium and endometrium. The endometrium is made up of two layers, the **basal layer** and the **functional layer** which is what is shed a menses if a [[menstrual cycle]] passes with no fertilization/implantation. The cervix has two openings, the **internal os** inside the uterus and the **external os** inside the vagina. The external os has special mucus secreting cells that form a mucus plug, or a physical barrier into the uterus. ## The Uterus During Pregnancy The uterus grows and changes throughout pregnancy. At the end of pregnancy the uterus undergoes [[uterine involution]] where it returns to it's non-pregnant state. The uterus is supported by two rope like bands of connective tissues called the **round ligaments**. They are each about 4 inches in length. When the uterus expands during [[pregnancy]] this can cause tension and pain on the anterior round ligament. ![[round ligament.png]] ## Problems with the Uterus - [[fibroids]] - [[endometriosis]] - [[uterine cancer]] - [[cervical cancer]] ___