Features of the structure and function of the female uterus. Possible pathologies and disease prevention. The female uterus - how the organ works, what are its sizes and functions at different periods of life
Content
The uterus is one of the most important organs of the female reproductive system, because it plays the main role in the bearing, growth and development of the child. Depending on the period of the menstrual cycle, the onset of pregnancy, or the presence of a particular pathology, the location and size of a woman’s uterus may change.
Structure
The uterus is a hollow muscular structure that has elasticity and the ability to stretch and return to its original position. Its walls are represented by three layers:
- endometrium (inner mucous membrane);
- myometrium (middle muscle layer);
- perimetrium (outer serous membrane).
There are three parts: the neck, the body or cavity and the bottom. The cervix is a narrow muscular cylinder that connects the uterine cavity to the vagina. It has two pharynxes: an external one, which opens into the vagina, and an internal one, which opens into the cavity. Based on where the cervix is located and what its structure and consistency is, one can judge the presence of pregnancy. Softening of tissues and acquiring a slightly bluish tint are one of the first signs of successful fertilization and embryo development.
The length of the body is about 6-7 cm, and the length of the cervix is about 2-3 cm. In a nulliparous girl, the weight of the uterus reaches 50 g; in girls who have given birth, this value can be increased to 80 g. The same applies to the size of the organ: in those who have given birth : its length and volume are slightly greater than those of nulliparous women. This is due to stretching of the muscle layer during pregnancy.
On the sides are the ovaries, which connect to the uterine body through the fallopian tubes. It is through the tubes that the egg released by the ovaries is transported to fuse with the sperm and form a zygote.
Location in the body
Now it is important to understand where a woman’s uterus is normally located. The organ is located in front of the rectum and behind the bladder.
A woman’s uterus is quite mobile, since it is held in space with the help of muscle ligaments that have the ability to contract and stretch. This is why a bend often forms, and the position of the neck and cavity changes. The body deviates either forward towards the bladder (pathological anteflexion) or back towards the rectum (retroversion and retroflexion). The reasons for this situation can be either a congenital feature of a woman or mechanical pressure, weakening of the ligamentous apparatus and adhesions.
Slight tilt of the organ to one side is completely normal. However, if a woman’s uterus changes location due to adhesions, this is a pathology.
Changes in location during pregnancy
How is the uterus positioned during pregnancy? Already from the third month, the organ begins to increase significantly in size. If before this it was located behind the symphysis pubis, then starting from the second trimester, the uterus gradually rises higher, and by the beginning of the 5th month the fundus can reach the level of the navel. Possible shortness of breath in the last stages is associated with this, since the cavity increases tens of times and begins to put pressure on the diaphragm. In addition, the organ puts pressure on the bladder and stomach. In this regard, a woman often experiences a feeling of heartburn, stomach discomfort and frequent urination.
According to the shape and size of the uterine body A gynecologist can determine the gestational age. For example, in the first weeks it has a pear-shaped shape, while as the fetus grows it acquires a rounded appearance. The height of the fundus of a woman’s uterus determines the duration of pregnancy.
Where exactly is the cervix and uterine cavity located during gestation? During pregnancy, their location does not change. The body still occupies a position behind the bladder and in front of the rectum. But at the same time its size changes significantly.
At later stages, when the body begins intensive preparation for childbirth, the cervix begins to shorten and can reach only 15-20 mm. At the same time, the uterus itself begins to descend. Therefore, the drooping of the abdomen most often indicates possible childbirth in the near future.
Possible deviations
By how and where a woman’s uterus is located, one can judge the state of the entire reproductive system. Since any deviation is a sign of the development of some pathology.
Main location anomalies.
- Omission. In this case, the location of the uterus is noted at a lower level than usual. Most often, this pathology occurs due to stretching of the ligamentous apparatus that maintains the location in space. A distinction is made between complete prolapse (prolapse beyond the genital opening) and incomplete prolapse (only the vaginal part of the cervix protrudes).
- Eversion. It is considered a rather rare pathology. In this case, the uterus turns outward: the mucous membrane is located on the outside, and the perimeter, or serous layer, lines the inner surface. With this anomaly, the cervix is located slightly higher than the body. Eversion occurs due to improper expulsion of the placenta or tumor.
- Bias. It comes in several types. First of all, a distinction is made between displacement in the horizontal and longitudinal planes. In the first case, a woman has a bend of the uterus or a tilt to the side. The second type of displacement is characterized by rotation or twisting of the uterus.
Symptoms of these abnormalities in the location of the uterus most often include pain during menstruation, disruption of the functioning of other structures of the reproductive system, as well as problems with conceiving or bearing a child.
Normally, an obtuse angle forms between the cervix and the body of the uterus. However, when the uterus deviates posteriorly or anteriorly, the angle becomes acute. This can further hinder the passage of sperm to the egg.
Since the uterus is a mobile muscular organ, its location can change throughout a woman's life. This is facilitated by periods of the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause and pathology.
1 - anterior column of vaginal folds; 2 - vaginal folds; 3 - fusiform folds; 4 - cervical canal; 5 - cervix; 6 - uterine mucosa (endometrium); 7 - muscular lining of the uterus (myometrium); 8 - posterior leaf of the broad ligament of the uterus; 9 - anterior leaf of the broad ligament of the uterus; 10 - round ligament of the uterus; 11 - uterine (fallopian) tube; 12 - mesentery of the ovary; 13 - left ovary; 14 - mesentery of the fallopian tube; 15 - own ligament of the ovary; 16 - periuterine tissue; 17 - serous membrane of the uterus (perimetry); 18 - fundus of the uterus; 19 - body of the uterus; 20 - uterine opening of the tube; 21 - isthmus of the fallopian tube; 22 - pipe folds; 23 - tubal branch of the uterine artery; 24 - ovarian branch of the uterine artery; 25 - longitudinal duct of the epididymis; 26 - transverse ducts of the epididymis; 27 - pipe folds; 28 - ampulla of the fallopian tube; 29 - funnel of the fallopian tube; 30 - fimbriae (fimbriae) of the pipe; 31 - vesicular ovarian follicle; 32 - ovarian stroma; 33 - corpus luteum of the ovary; 34 - round ligament of the uterus; 35 - uterine artery; 36 - uterine cavity; 37 - opening of the uterus; 38 - muscular layer of the vagina; 39 - vaginal mucosa.
Uterus It is an unpaired hollow smooth muscle organ located in the pelvic cavity, at the same distance from the pubic symphysis and sacrum, at such a height that its uppermost section, the fundus of the uterus, does not protrude beyond the level of the upper pelvic aperture. The uterus is pear-shaped, flattened in the anteroposterior direction. The wide part of it faces up and forward, the narrow part faces down and forward. The shape and size of the uterus change significantly during different periods of life and, mainly, during pregnancy. The length of the uterus in a nulliparous woman is 7-8 cm, in a woman who has given birth - 8 - 9.5 cm, width at the bottom level is 4 - 5.5 cm; weight ranges from 30 to 100g.
The uterus is divided into the cervix, body and fundus.
Cervix
Cervix sometimes it gradually passes into the body of the uterus, sometimes it is sharply demarcated from it; its length reaches 3 cm; it is divided into two parts: supravaginal and vaginal. The upper two-thirds of the cervix are located above the vagina and make up its supravaginal part. The lower third of the cervix is, as it were, pressed into the vagina and forms it vaginal part. At its lower end there is a round or oval opening of the uterus, the edges of which form front lip And back lip. In women who have given birth, the opening of the uterus has the appearance of a transverse slit, in nulliparous women it has a rounded shape. The hind lip is somewhat longer and less thick, located above the anterior one. The opening of the uterus is directed towards the posterior wall of the vagina.
1 - vaginal vault; 2 - posterior lip of the cervix; 3 - opening of the uterus; 4 - anterior lip of the cervix; 5 - anterior vaginal wall; 6 - vaginal vault; 7- posterior wall of the vagina.
Located in the cervix cervical canal, the width of which is not the same along its length: the middle sections of the canal are wider than the area of the external and internal openings, due to which the canal cavity has a spindle-shaped shape. An examination of the cervix is called colposcopy
Body of the uterus
Body of the uterus has a triangular shape with a truncated lower corner extending into the neck. The body is separated from the neck by a narrowed part - isthmus of the uterus, which corresponds to the position of the internal opening of the uterus. In the body of the uterus there is an anterior vesical surface rear intestinal surface and lateral right And left, edge of the uterus, where the front and back surfaces merge into one another. The upper part of the uterus, which rises in the form of a vault above the openings of the fallopian tubes, is called the fundus of the uterus. It represents a convexity and forms angles with the lateral edges of the uterus into which the fallopian tubes enter. The area of the uterine body corresponding to the confluence of the tubes is called the uterine horns.
Uterine cavity
Uterine cavity 6-7 cm long, in the frontal section it has the shape of a triangle, in the upper corners of which the mouths of the fallopian tubes open, in the lower corners - the internal opening of the uterus, which leads into the cervical canal; The size of the cavity in nulliparous women is different than in those who have given birth: in the former, the side walls are more sharply concave into the cavity. The anterior wall of the uterine body is adjacent to the posterior wall, due to which the cavity on a sagittal section has the shape of a slit. The lower narrow part of the cavity communicates with cervical canal, having a spindle shape. The canal opens into the vagina opening of the uterus.
Uterine wall
Uterine wall consists of three layers: the outer - serous membrane, the subserosal base, the middle - muscular, and the inner - mucous membrane.
Serosa (perimetry) It is a direct continuation of the serous covering of the bladder. Over a large area of the anterior and posterior surfaces and fundus of the uterus, it is tightly fused with the myometrium; At the border of the isthmus, the peritoneal cover is attached loosely.
The muscular lining of the uterus (myometrium) - the most powerful layer of the uterine wall, consists of three layers of smooth muscle fibers with an admixture of fibrous connective tissue and elastic fibers. All three layers are intertwined with each other in very different directions, due to which their separation is not sufficiently pronounced. The thin outer layer (subserosal) with longitudinally arranged fibers and a small amount of circular ones, as was said, is tightly fused with the serous cover. The middle layer, circular, is the most developed. It consists of rings located in the area of the tube angles perpendicular to their axis, in the area of the uterine body in a circular and oblique direction. This layer contains a large number of vessels, mainly venous, which is why it is also called the vascular layer. The inner layer (submucosal) is the thinnest, with longitudinally running fibers.
The mucous membrane of the uterus (endometrium), merging with the muscular layer, lining the uterine cavity without a submucosal layer. In the area of the uterine openings of the tubes, it passes into their mucous membrane; in the area of the bottom and body, it has a smooth surface. On the anterior and posterior walls of the cervical canal, the mucous membrane forms longitudinally running palm-shaped folds. The mucous membrane of the uterus consists of a single-layer cylindrical ciliated epithelium; it contains tubular uterine glands, which in the cervical area are called cervical glands.
Position of the uterus in relation to other internal organs
The uterus occupies a central position in the pelvic cavity. In front of it, in contact with its anterior surface, is the bladder, behind it is the rectum and loops of the small intestine. There are the upper, intraperitoneal, part of the uterus (fundus, body and partly the cervix) and the lower, extraperitoneal. The peritoneum covers the anterior and posterior surfaces of the uterus and passes to neighboring organs: in front, at the level of the middle height of the cervix, it passes to the bladder, and a vesicouterine cavity is formed here; behind, the peritoneum descends along the surface of the body of the uterus to the cervix, then down to the posterior wall of the vagina and passes to the anterior wall of the rectum. The peritoneal cavity between the uterus and intestine is called rectouterine. On the sides, at the place of transition into the broad ligaments, the peritoneum is connected to the uterus. At the base of the broad ligaments, at the level of the cervix, between the layers of the peritoneum is located periuterine tissue or parometrium.
The lower half of the anterior surface of the cervix is devoid of serous cover and is separated from the upper part of the posterior wall of the bladder by a connective tissue septum that secures both organs. The lower part of the uterus - the cervix - is connected to the vagina starting from it.
The uterus occupies a position in the pelvic cavity that is not vertical, but curved forward, as a result of which its body is tilted above the anterior surface of the bladder. Along the axis, the body of the uterus forms an anteriorly open angle of 70-100° relative to its cervix - a forward bend. In addition, the uterus may be deviated from the midline to one side, right or left. Depending on the filling of the bladder or rectum, the inclination of the uterus changes.
Inset: The uterus is held in position by a number of ligaments: the paired round ligament of the uterus, the right and left broad ligaments of the uterus, the paired rectal uterine and sacrouterine ligaments.
Ligaments that hold the uterus in a certain position
Round ligament of the uterus It is a cord of connective and smooth muscle tissue 10-15 cm long, which starts from the edge of the uterus below and in front of the fallopian tube.
The round ligament is located in the peritoneal fold, at the beginning of the broad ligament of the uterus, and is directed to the lateral wall of the small pelvis, then upward and forward to the deep inguinal ring. On its way, it crosses the obturator vessels and nerve, the lateral umbilical ligament, the external iliac vein, and the inferior epigastric vessels. Having passed through the inguinal canal, it exits through its superficial ring and scatters in the subcutaneous tissue of the area of the pubic eminence and labia majora.
In the inguinal canal, the round ligament of the uterus is accompanied by: the artery of the round ligament of the uterus, the pudendal nerve branch and bundles of muscle fibers.
Broad ligament of the uterus consists of two - anterior and posterior - layers of the peritoneum, which runs from the uterus sideways to the side wall of the pelvis. Having reached it, and at its base approaching the bottom of the pelvis, the leaves of the broad ligament pass into the parietal peritoneum of the small pelvis. Between the leaves of the broad ligament of the uterus, at its base, there are connective tissue cords with smooth muscle bundles, forming a cardinal ligament on both sides of the uterus, which plays a significant role in fixing the uterus and vagina. Medially, the tissue of this ligament passes into the periuterine tissue, which surrounds the cervix and the upper part of the lateral sections of the vagina (at the level of its vaults).
The ureter, uterine artery and uterovaginal nerve plexus pass through the periuterine tissue.
Between the leaves of the upper edge of the broad ligament lies the fallopian tube. From the posterior leaf of the lateral part of the broad ligament, below the ampulla of the fallopian tube, it arises mesentery of the ovary. Below the medial part of the tube on the posterior surface of the broad ligament is ovarian ligament.
The area of the broad ligament between the tube and the mesentery of the ovary is called mesentery of the fallopian tube. The superior lateral edge of the broad ligament forms ligament that suspends the ovary.
The round ligament of the uterus is visible on the anterior surface of the initial part of the broad ligament.
The fixing apparatus of the uterus includes the ligaments that lie in the right and left rectal-uterine folds. Both of them contain connective tissue cords, bundles of the rectouterine muscle and follow from the cervix to the lateral surfaces of the rectum and to the pelvic surface of the sacrum.
1- vagina; 2- peritoneum; 3 - cervix; 4 - body of the uterus; 5 - round ligament of the uterus; 6 - own ligament of the ovary; 7 - uterine (fallopian) tube; 8 - fundus of the uterus; 9 - round ligament of the uterus; 10 - own ligament of the ovary; 11 - isthmus of the fallopian tube; 12 - mesentery of the fallopian tube; 13 - uterine (fallopian) tube; 14 - transverse ducts of the epididymis; 15 - longitudinal duct of the epididymis; 16 - ampulla of the fallopian tube; 17 - fimbriae (fimbriae) of the pipe; 18 - abdominal opening of the fallopian tube; 19 - ligament supporting the ovary; 20 - ovarian fimbria; 21 - hydatid; 22 - ovary; 23 - free edge of the ovary; 24 - broad ligament of the uterus; 25 - rectal-uterine fold of the peritoneum.
The uterus (uterus) is an unpaired smooth muscle hollow organ in which the processes of embryo development and gestation occur. The uterus is located in the pelvic cavity, mesoperitoneally, behind the bladder, in front of the rectum. In women of reproductive age, the length of the uterus is approximately 7-8 cm, width - 4 cm. In nulliparous women, the weight of the uterus is 40-50 g, in those who have given birth - about 80 (associated with hypertrophy of the muscular layer). The uterus is a fairly mobile organ, and depending on the location of neighboring organs, it can occupy different positions. Normally, the uterus is in an anteflexio position (the longitudinal axis is oriented along the axis of the pelvis), anteversio (a full bladder, as well as the rectum slightly tilt the uterus forward). Most of the surface of the organ, except for the vaginal part of the cervix, is covered with peritoneum.
The uterus consists of three parts:
- the bottom of the uterus - protrudes slightly above the line of confluence of the fallopian tubes, this is the convex upper part;
- body of the uterus - the middle part of the cone shape;
- The cervix is the narrowed lower rounded part.
The lower part of the cervix protrudes into the vagina and is called the vaginal part, the upper part, lying above the vagina, is called the supravaginal part. On the vaginal part there is an opening of the cervix, which has a round shape in nulliparous women, and a slit-like shape in women who have given birth.
Layers of the uterine wall
The uterine wall has three layers:
- perimeter (serous layer) - on the larger surface of the anterior, posterior wall and fundus of the uterus, it is tightly fused with the myometrium, loosely attached in the area of the isthmus;
- myometrium (muscle layer) - consists of three layers of smooth muscle (external longitudinal, middle circular, internal longitudinal) with an admixture of elastic fibers and fibrous connective tissue;
- endometrium (mucous membrane) - formed by cylindrical epithelium, which has superficial (functional) and deep (basal) layers.
Uterus during pregnancy
The uterus undergoes significant changes during pregnancy. The muscle layer is actively increasing. Muscle fibers increase in length and also become more voluminous. In addition, they increase the content of the protein actomyosin, which is responsible for muscle contractions. To prevent premature contraction of the uterine muscles, there is a hormone called progesterone. If its production is insufficient, contractions of the muscular layer of the uterus occur. In this case, we are talking about increased uterine tone. A periodic increase in the tone of the uterus is a variant of the norm, but a constant significant increase in the tone of the uterus can negatively affect the development of the fetus, since when the muscle layer contracts, the blood vessels are compressed, as a result of which the nutrition of the fetus is disrupted. The main danger is insufficient blood supply to the fetal brain. During pregnancy, the uterus enlarges from the first weeks, reaching its maximum size by the time of delivery.
The muscles of the uterus are always in good shape, not only during pregnancy. They constantly either relax or contract. An increase in uterine tone is observed during sexual intercourse, as well as during menstruation, which in the first case contributes to the promotion of sperm, in the second - the rejection of the functional layer of the endometrium.
Cervical erosion, treatment
One of the common diseases of the female reproductive system is cervical erosion. Treatment of this pathology is highly effective, but must be carried out on time. The term “cervical erosion” refers to the focus of damage to the mucous membrane of the cervix. Treatment of erosion includes the following methods:
- conization;
- laser coagulation;
- chemical coagulation;
- radiosurgical method.
Uterine fibroids, treatment
Another common pathology is uterine fibroids. This is a benign neoplasm that occurs in the myometrium. Myoma is a chaotically intertwined smooth muscle fiber. Myoma nodes reach quite large sizes and can weigh several kilograms. Symptoms of this pathology are menorrhagia, pain and a feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen. Symptoms of dysfunction of neighboring organs may also occur: the rectum, bladder, which occur with large sizes of uterine fibroids. Treatment of this disease can be expectant (this is justified for slow-growing fibroids). In addition to drug therapy, methods such as hysterectomy, uterine artery embolization, and FUS ablation of fibroids are used to treat fibroids.
Uterus removal
Removal of the uterus, or hysterectomy, is one of the most common surgical interventions in gynecological practice. Removal of the uterus is used for those diseases when the use of alternative treatment methods is impossible. In addition to uterine fibroids, indications for this surgical intervention include endometriosis, uterine prolapse, abnormal uterine bleeding, uterine cancer, cervical, ovarian, and fallopian tube cancer.
Depending on the volume of tissue removed, the following types of hysterectomy are distinguished:
- subtotal hysterectomy (amputation of the uterus) – performed with preservation of the cervix;
- total hysterectomy (extirpation) – the uterus and cervix are removed;
- hysterosalpingo-oophorectomy – the uterus and appendages are removed;
- radical hysterectomy - the uterus is removed with the appendages, cervix, upper part of the vagina, as well as surrounding tissue and lymph nodes.
The length of this organ in a woman of childbearing age is from 7 to 8 cm. Weight before the first birth is 40 - 50 g, after birth up to 80 g. The shape is similar to a pear, with the narrow side facing down.
The organ is not rigidly fixed, so under certain physiological conditions it can move somewhat.
The walls of the uterus consist of three layers: outside parametrium (serous layer), then comes myometrium (muscular layer) and from the inside a mucous membrane called endometrium .
Cervix- this is the lower part of the organ, which connects to the vagina, and is its narrower part. The basis of the neck is collagen fibers, a certain amount of smooth muscles and elastic fibers.
On the mucous membrane of the cervix there are glands that produce their own mucus.
Condition before menstruation
Due to the fact that it is in this organ that the embryo and fetus are gestated, cyclical processes take place in it throughout the menstrual cycle. In the first ten days of the cycle, changes occur in the uterus aimed at accepting the embryo: its mucous membrane becomes thicker, blood vessels branch and thicken. If conception does not occur, the mucous membrane is rejected and expelled from the uterus - menstruation begins.Painful sensations before menstruation are associated with the fact that the uterus is filled with blood as much as possible, and its walls swell.
Children's uterus (hypoplasia)
If the size of the organ does not correspond to age norms, a diagnosis of “hypoplasia” is made. Hypoplasia can be germinal, infantile ( children's) and teenage.With hypoplasia, most often the development of other genital organs also does not correspond to the age norm ( for example, ovaries, labia).
Against the background of hypoplasia, dysmenorrhea may occur ( pain during menstruation), amenorrhea ( disruptions and absence of menstruation).
Hypoplasia can be suspected if a girl has not had menstruation before the age of 15. This situation requires medical intervention.
Causes:
Hormonal disorders during puberty.
Treatment:
- Hormonal drugs
- Physiotherapy
- Special types of massage
- Special diet.
Bend
In a healthy woman, the uterus is directed slightly forward. An obtuse angle should form between the neck and the body of the organ. Sometimes the uterus shifts and bends back.Causes:
- Inflammatory diseases
- Chronic constipation
- Delayed urine output
- Weakness of the ligaments that support the uterus
- Pain in the lower abdomen and lower back
- Pain during menstruation, prolonged bleeding
- Constipation.
Condition during pregnancy
During pregnancy, the uterus constantly increases in size, and at the same time the muscles that make up the walls of the organ become longer. The internal space of the organ is filled with fluid. In the third month of gestation, the volume of the uterus is approximately equal to the volume of a duck egg, and after another month it can already be felt ( if there is not too thick a layer of fat on the stomach). In the sixth month, the fundus of the uterus is at the height of the navel, and in the ninth month it is closer to the lower extremity of the sternum.
Disclosure
Dilatation of the uterus is the first stage of labor. Under the influence of contractions of the uterine muscles, the pharynx opens so that it almost passes into the vagina. Only when dilation is complete does the period of pushing and expulsion of the fetus begin.The stage of throat opening is the longest stage of labor, the duration of which varies from person to person.
An internal study is used to determine the degree of disclosure.
Increased tone
The most common pathology of pregnancy today is too high a tone of the uterus.Normally, the muscles that make up the walls of the uterus should be relaxed and this condition is called normotonus. If the muscle fibers contract, the pressure inside the organ increases - it creates hypertonicity.
Cause:
- Neglecting a healthy lifestyle
- Overwork
- Diseases of the uterus ( fibroids, endometriosis, inflammation).
- Peace
- Taking papaverine or no-shpa
- Taking hormonal medications ( if the cause is hormonal imbalance)
- Taking magnesium and vitamins AT 6 .
Stitches on the uterus
Modern surgeons prefer to make a transverse incision in the lower part of the uterus 11–12 cm long. This tactic allows the wound to heal faster and reduces the amount of lost blood.A double-row suture is placed on the uterus using completely absorbable materials, e.g. dexona, vicryl, caproag.
According to doctors, up to 80% of women who have had a cesarean section can give birth on their own in the future. With such births, it is very important that they take place without any stimulation. The risk of seam rupture ranges from 0.5 to 2% according to various sources. According to American doctors, out of 17.5 thousand births to women with uterine scars, only 5 babies could not be saved.
The younger the woman and the more time has passed since the cesarean section, the higher the chance of giving birth without complications.
Gap
One of the most severe complications of childbirth and pregnancy. It happens both under the influence of external causes and without them.Causes:
- Pelvis too narrow
- Transverse presentation of the fetus
- Fruit too large
- Neoplasms in the pelvic organs
- Violation of the condition of the uterine wall caused by inflammation, degenerative processes
- Scars from previous cesarean sections.
Condition after childbirth
After separation of the placenta, the uterus contracts strongly. There is a certain amount of blood inside the organ, its walls are initially wrinkled, since the volume of the organ decreases very quickly, and gradually smooth out. Recovery ( involution) of the uterus occurs quite quickly, but this process can be influenced by the following factors: - Woman's age
- Course of labor
- General state
- Chronic diseases.
Ten days after birth, the mucous membrane of the organ is completely restored and cleared of blood clots. And only the area where the placenta was located heals by day 20.
Erosion (ectopia)
A very common disease that is an ulcer on the mucous membrane of the cervix.Cause:
- Development of a pathogenic infection
- Cervical injuries
- Hormonal imbalance
- Onset of sexual activity before age 20
- Poor immunity.
- If there is an infection, antibiotics
- Chemical coagulants
- Ointments that restore mucous membranes
- Cryodestruction
- Laser coagulation
- Diathermocoagulation.
Myoma
A benign neoplasm that forms in the muscular layer of the uterine lining.Factors predisposing to its development:
- Inflammatory processes
- Abortion
- Endometriosis
- Any surgical interventions ( curettage, surgical assistance during childbirth).
Ultrasound examination.
Treatment:
- Medications
- Embolization of the uterine arteries
- Exposure to special types of ultrasound
- Organ amputation.
Cancer
It ranks first among cancer diseases in women. The presence of human papillomavirus in the body creates favorable conditions for the development of cancer.At the beginning of its development, the disease is asymptomatic, although an unpleasant sensation during the process of copulation, scanty bleeding, and nagging pain in the lower abdomen may be observed.
Diagnostics:
- Cytology
- Schiller test
- Histology.
Endometriosis
Proliferation of the uterine mucosa on other organs. Women over the age of forty, especially those who have not had children, are more susceptible to the disease.Symptoms:
They are very diverse, sometimes completely absent. Most often there is pain, menstrual irregularities, pain during intercourse, infertility, menorrhagia ( increased intensity and duration of menstruation).
Causes:
- Genetic predisposition
- Individual structure of the fallopian tubes
- Immunity failures.
- Medication
- Surgical
- Uterus removal.
Dysplasia
Changes in the mucous membrane of the cervix that precede malignancy. Dysplasia can affect both the superficial cells of the mucosa and the deeper ones. With dysplasia, unlike erosion, there is no mechanical disruption of integrity.Cause:
- Human papillomavirus.
Symptoms there is no disease.
Treatment can be carried out using both conservative and surgical methods.
Cyst
A fairly common disease is a consequence of pseudo-erosions. With this disease, the glands located on the cervix become clogged and turn into cysts.The disease is usually asymptomatic and can be detected by a doctor during an examination.
Treatment:
- Surgical removal of a cyst
- Laser therapy
Polyps
Benign neoplasms of the cervix. Polyps most often appear on the external pharynx.Polyps can develop with or without a stalk and are classified as adenomatous, glandular and glandular-fibrous.
The disease is usually asymptomatic. Often combined with other gynecological diseases.
Diagnostics:
Detected during examination, colposcopy.
Treatment:
Surgical.
Leukoplakia
Increased thickness of the mucous membrane of the cervix. It may indicate a malfunction of the ovaries, as well as the presence in the body of the herpes simplex virus and human papilloma. Sometimes it is a companion to erosion.Symptoms:
Usually absent, sometimes itching.
Treatment:
Cauterization of the affected area.
Ultrasound
This is a very widely used method for examining the uterus. It is recommended if there are complaints about menstrual irregularities, pain in the lower abdomen, inability to conceive, uterine bleeding in the middle of the cycle, painful sexual intercourse.
Ultrasound is performed both through the anterior abdominal wall and transvaginally.
May reveal:
Myoma, endometriosis, cancer, violation of the structure, shape, size of the organ, as well as ovarian diseases.
Biopsy
This is a diagnostic method that involves taking a piece of tissue from the cervix or body of the organ. Makes it possible to detect cancer, as well as inflammatory processes. It is done from days 5 to 7 of the cycle, without pain relief.Types of biopsy:
- puncture
- Incisional
- Endoscopic
- Aspiration.
It is done quickly, the procedure is simple, no anesthesia is required.
Disadvantages of the method:
Sometimes there are unpleasant sensations; during menopause, there are technical difficulties in collecting material.
Sexual intercourse is prohibited for 4 weeks after the procedure.
Conization of the uterus- This is one of the types of biopsy. During the procedure, a cone-shaped section of tissue is removed.
The method is used for both treatment and diagnosis. The procedure is carried out both inpatient and outpatient. But in the second case, after the procedure you need to stay in the clinic for 1 to 4 hours under the supervision of a doctor.
Removal (Hysterectomy)
During the operation, the body of the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes are removed. The procedure is painful and is prescribed only in exceptional cases.Indications for hysterectomy:
- Cancer of the uterus and cervix
- Uncontrolled endometriosis
- Fibroids in some cases
- Uterine prolapse
- Dysmenorrhea
- Severe inflammation of the pelvic organs.
In premenopausal age, surgery is prescribed only in emergency cases, as it entails serious disruptions in the functioning of many organs and systems, as well as disturbances in the psycho-emotional state of the woman.
Cauterization of erosion (diathermocoagulation)
The hot cauterization procedure is used only in the treatment of women who already have children, since such manipulation may leave scars that complicate childbirth. Recovery after the procedure lasts about 2 weeks. After cauterization, a woman may observe discharge ( bloody or transparent). For better recovery after cauterization, you should refrain from:- Weight lifting
- Hot bath
- Sexual relationship for a period of at least 2 weeks.
Cryodestruction– this is the same cauterization, but with liquid nitrogen. The procedure is more humane to tissues, leaving virtually no traces behind. Now equipment for such a procedure is not uncommon.
Scraping
Purposes of curettage:
- Treatment of polyps, uterine bleeding, hyperplasia, as well as before intervention for the treatment of fibroids
- Diagnostics ( to clarify the existing diagnosis).
Curettage of the uterus is a last resort measure, which is resorted to when absolutely necessary.
The procedure is performed using a hysteroscope. Prescribed for the last days of the menstrual cycle.
Radio wave treatment
Radiosurgery is an operation in which the surgical instrument is a radioknife.What can be treated?
- Coagulation of endometriosis foci
- Cervical biopsy
- Conization of the cervix
- Treatment of cervical erosion
- Removal of genital warts of the vulva.
- No blood loss
- Virtually painless procedure
- Short recovery period
- The operation itself takes just a few minutes.
Vaccination against cancer
The vaccine is effective against 4 types of papillomavirus, which create favorable conditions for the development of cervical cancer.The duration of the vaccine is five years ( strong immunity).
Girls under the age of 26, as well as boys under 17, can be vaccinated ( in order to avoid becoming carriers of the virus).
The vaccine causes virtually no side effects except for local reactions.
Contraindications for vaccination:
- Pregnancy
- Neurological and somatic ailments
- Individual intolerance
- Increased body temperature.
Treatment of cancer with folk remedies
1.
Grind 150 g in a meat grinder. aloe leaves, mixed with 250 gr. honey ( better than May), 270 ml Cahors. Keep in the refrigerator for 5 days. Use 1 tsp for 5 days. three times a day 60 minutes before meals, add the amount to 1 tbsp. Duration of treatment is from 21 to 45 days. 2.
2 tsp bedstraw grass brew 1 tbsp. boiling water, stand for 3 hours under a hood, pass through a sieve. Use for douching and consume a quarter glass three to four times a day.
3.
1 tbsp. pour 200 ml of boiling water over burdock leaves, let cool, pass through a sieve, consume 100 ml orally three to four times a day.
Treatment of fibroids with folk remedies
1. Take the average onion white, finely chop, place in sterile gauze, tie with a strong thread in the form of a tampon and insert into the vagina as deeply as possible overnight. Do the procedure daily for 4 weeks or longer until the fibroids disappear.2. Take 25 walnut partitions, add half a glass alcohol, stand for 7 days and consume 15 drops three times a day, diluting with a small amount of water. Duration of treatment is 8 weeks.
3. Make a decoction of flax seeds, consume 50 ml of the decoction three times a day for two weeks.
4. Take carrot tops: two presses per liter of boiling water. Leave covered for 40 minutes. Use to relieve bleeding from fibroids.
Treatment of prolapse with folk remedies
1. Melissa tea: 400 ml of boiling water 2 tbsp. raw materials. Keep in a thermos for 8 hours, drink two-thirds of a glass 60 minutes before meals.2. 1 tbsp. l. elecampane, 500 ml vodka stand for 10 days in the pantry. Use 1 tbsp. before breakfast.
3.
Oregano and lemon balm 75 gr., coltsfoot 100 gr. mix well, 2 tbsp. collection, pour 400 ml of boiling water into a thermos. Drink 70 ml 60 minutes before meals three times a day.
Not every woman understands exactly where the organs of her reproductive system are located. Therefore, when pain occurs, representatives of the fair sex often cannot understand what is bothering them. Many of them do not know where the uterus is. But this is one of the most important organs of a woman, performing many functions. Let's look at this issue in more detail.
Structure and physiological changes of the uterus
The pelvic cavity is where the uterus is located. It is located in the lower part of the abdominal region. What does the uterus look like? Normally, it looks like an inverted pear. This is a cavity organ, the wall of which consists mainly of muscle tissue up to 3 cm thick. In front of it is the bladder. The posterior part is in contact with the anterior surface of the rectum.
The pelvic and uterine axis are in the same plane, which is considered normal. In addition, it may be slightly inconsistent. This is also not a pathology and does not require action.
The location of the uterus is influenced by the ligaments located on the sides and performing the function of holding it in the required position. Pathology is considered to be a strong deviation of the organ from the pelvic axis. It can descend, fall out, be located behind the rectum, or bend.
The weight of the uterus in a nulliparous woman does not exceed 50 grams. After the birth of a child, it increases one and a half to two times, reaching 100 g. In addition, the size of the organ matters. Its length in women who do not have children is approximately 7 cm and its width is 4 cm. During pregnancy, the uterus stretches. After childbirth, it shrinks, but it no longer decreases to its previous size. The longitudinal and transverse dimensions increase by 2-3 cm.
The uterus consists of the fundus, body and cervix. The fundus is the area located above the conventional line passing through the fallopian tubes. The body of the organ in a triangular section starts from the fundus and continues to the uterine constriction.
The cervix is a continuation of the previous part and makes up the entire rest of the uterus. It opens into the vagina and consists of three parts - anterior, posterior and a section located above the vagina. The latter, in women who do not have children, resembles a cut cone, and in those who have given birth, it is cylindrical in shape.
Many of our readers TREATMENT OF UTERINE FIBROIDS actively use a new method based on natural ingredients, which was discovered by Natalya Shukshina. It contains only natural ingredients, herbs and extracts - no hormones or chemicals. To get rid of uterine fibroids you need to eat every morning on an empty stomach...
The inside of the neck is covered by a layer of epithelium. The part that is visible in the vaginal cavity is covered by stratified squamous epithelium, which is not prone to keratinization. The remaining segment is lined with glandular epithelial cells.
The place of transition from one type to another is of important clinical significance. Dysplasia often occurs in this area, which, if left untreated, can turn into a cancerous tumor.
The frontal section of the organ is similar to a triangle. Its acute angle is directed downwards. A fallopian tube opens into the uterus on each side. The base of the triangle passes into the cervical canal, preventing the release of mucus produced by the glandular epithelium. This secretion has antiseptic properties and kills bacteria heading into the abdominal cavity. The cervical canal has two openings. One protrudes into the uterus, the second into the vaginal cavity.
The cervical canal is round or resembles a transverse slit. The place where the body meets the neck is called the isthmus. Here, a woman's uterus often ruptures during the birthing process.
The uterine wall has three layers: the outer layer is the serous membrane, the middle layer is the muscle fibers that form the basis of the organ, and the inner layer is the mucous membrane. In addition, the parametrium is distinguished - this is fatty tissue that is located in front and on the side of the uterus, in the space between the sheets of the largest ligament. It contains vessels that provide nutrition to the organ.
Contractility is influenced by sex hormones. It is the muscle layer that ensures the birth of a child. The internal pharynx and isthmus also play a certain role in this process.
The mucous layer (endometrium) is covered with epithelial cells. It is smooth and divided into two sublayers. The surface sublayer has a variable thickness. Before menstruation, it is rejected, which is accompanied by bleeding.
The surface layer is also important for gestation. The fertilized egg is attached to it. The basal sublayer is like the base of the mucous layer. Its function is to ensure the restoration of the surface epithelium. It contains tubular glands that reach the muscle fibers.
The serosa is the outer covering layer of a woman's uterus. It lines the muscles of the bottom and body outside. On the sides it passes to other organs.
It forms a vesicouterine cavity near the bladder. The connection with it is carried out through fiber. At the back, the peritoneum passes onto the vagina and rectum, forming the rectouterine cavity. It is closed by serous folds, which consist of connective tissue cells. They also contain some smooth muscle fibers.
Review from our reader Svetlana Afanasyeva
I recently read an article that talks about Father George’s Monastic Collection for the treatment and prevention of fibroids. With the help of this collection you can FOREVER get rid of fibroids and problems like women at home.
I’m not used to trusting any information, but I decided to check and ordered a bag. I noticed changes literally after a week: the constant pain in the lower abdomen that had tormented me before receded, and after 3 weeks disappeared completely. Uterine bleeding has stopped. Try it too, and if anyone is interested, below is the link to the article.
Functions of the uterus and deviations in its structure
The main function of a woman's uterus is the ability to bear a fetus. It is provided by the muscles of the middle layer. It contains smooth muscle fibers that intertwine with each other. This structure allows the muscles to stretch during pregnancy as the fetus grows. In this case, there is no violation of tone.
The female uterus and the ligaments surrounding it are supplied by the uterine and ovarian arteries. The outflow is carried out by the venous uterine plexus, which is located in the broad ligament. From it, blood flows into the ovarian, uterine and internal sacral veins.
During gestation, these vessels can expand significantly, allowing the absorption of placental blood. Lymph flows into the external iliac and inguinal nodes. Innervation is carried out by many nerves.
In addition to ensuring implantation and fetal development, a healthy uterus performs the following functions:
- protects other organs of the pelvic cavity from infection through the vagina;
- provides menstrual function;
- participates in sexual intercourse, creating conditions for fertilization of the egg;
- strengthens the pelvic floor.
Along with the normal (pear-shaped) uterus, there are also abnormal types. These include:
A unicornuate uterus occurs in every tenth woman with a developmental anomaly. It is formed as a result of slower growth of the Müllerian ducts on one side. Half of patients with this diagnosis cannot have children. They also experience pain during intimacy.
A bicornuate uterus develops due to incomplete fusion of the Müllerian ducts. Often it is bilobed. In rare cases, two cervixes are observed. The vagina sometimes has a septum. In appearance, such a uterus resembles a heart.
The saddle shape is quite common. In this case, a saddle-shaped depression is formed in the bottom. This abnormal structure often does not cause any symptoms. May appear during pregnancy. Sometimes patients with a saddle uterus bear a child without problems. But there are also miscarriages or premature births.
A double uterus usually does not cause much trouble. The presence of two vaginas can be observed at the same time. Fetal development is possible in both uteruses.
A uterus whose length does not exceed 8 cm is considered small. At the same time, the proportions of the body and cervix, as well as all functions of the uterus, are preserved.
The infantile uterus is 3-5 cm long. The ratio of the body and cervix is incorrect, the latter is elongated. The rudimentary uterus is the remains of an organ that in most cases does not perform its function.
The uterus is one of the main organs of the female body. In its cavity, fertilization and development of the unborn child occurs. Thanks to this, she actually ensures continuation of the family.
Are you still sure that it is impossible to GET RID OF UTERINE FIBROIDS without surgery?
Have you ever tried to get rid of UTERINE FIBROID? Judging by the fact that you are reading this article, victory was not on your side. And of course you know firsthand what it is:
- constant pain in the side, heaviness in the stomach...
- heavy menstrual flow, uterine bleeding...
- anemia...
- loss of strength, depression, apathy...
- change in body weight...
- constipation and urinary problems...
Now answer the question: are you satisfied with this? Can UTERINE FIBROID be tolerated? How much money and time have you already wasted on ineffective treatment? After all, sooner or later it will grow to a size where only SURGERY can help! Why push yourself to the extreme! Do you agree? That is why we decided to publish an exclusive technique from Elena Malysheva, in which she revealed the secret of RIDING uterine fibroids.
Uterus (from lat. uterus, metra) is an unpaired hollow muscular organ in which the fetus develops during pregnancy. The uterus, as well as the ovaries, fallopian tubes and vagina are classified as internal female genital organs.
Location and shape of the uterus
The uterus is located in the pelvic cavity between the bladder in front and the rectum in back. The shape of the uterus has been compared to a pear, flattened from front to back. Its length is about 8 cm, weight 50-70 g. The uterus is divided into a body, an upper convex part - the bottom and a lower narrowed part - the cervix. The cervix protrudes into the upper part of the vagina. In a newborn girl, the cervix is longer than the body of the uterus, but during puberty the body of the uterus grows faster and reaches 6-7 cm, the cervix - 2.5 cm. In old age, the uterus atrophies and noticeably decreases.
The body of the uterus forms an angle with the cervix, open anteriorly (towards the bladder) - this is a normal physiological position. The uterus is held in place by several ligaments, the main of which, the broad ligaments of the uterus, are located on its sides and extend to the side walls of the pelvis. Depending on the filling of neighboring organs, the position of the uterus may change. So, when the bladder is full, the uterus deviates posteriorly and straightens. Constipation and intestinal fullness also affect the position and condition of the uterus. That is why it is important for a woman to empty both her bladder and rectum on time.
The uterine cavity is small compared to the size of the organ and has a triangular shape when cut. The openings of the fallopian tubes open into the corners of the base of the triangle (at the border between the fundus and body of the uterus). Downwards, the uterine cavity passes into the cervical canal, which opens into the vaginal cavity through the opening of the uterus. In nulliparous women, this hole has a round or oval shape; in women who have given birth, it looks like a transverse slit with healed tears.
Structure of the uterine wall
The wall of the uterus consists of 3 membranes: the inner - mucous (endometrium), the middle - muscular (myometrium) and the outer - serous (perimetry), represented by the peritoneum.
The structure of the endometrium
The mucous membrane of the uterus is covered with ciliated epithelium and has simple tubular glands. With the onset of puberty, it undergoes periodic changes associated with the maturation of eggs - female germ cells - in the ovary. A mature egg is sent from the surface of the ovary through the fallopian tube into the uterine cavity. If fertilization of the egg occurs in the fallopian tube (fusion of the egg and sperm - the male reproductive cell), then the embryo that has begun to form is implanted into the mucous membrane of the uterus, where its further development occurs, that is, pregnancy begins. At the 3rd month of pregnancy, the placenta, or baby's place, is formed in the uterus - a special formation through which the fetus receives nutrients and oxygen from the mother's body.
In the absence of fertilization, the endometrium undergoes complex cyclic changes, which are commonly called the menstrual cycle. At the beginning of the cycle, structural transformations occur aimed at preparing the endometrium to receive a fertilized egg: the thickness of the endometrium increases 4-5 times, its blood supply increases. If fertilization of the egg does not occur, menstruation occurs - the rejection of the surface part of the endometrium and its removal from the body along with the unfertilized egg. The menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, of which 4-6 days are menstruation itself. In the postmenstrual phase (up to the 11-14th day from the start of menstruation), a new egg matures in the ovary, and the surface layer of the mucous membrane is restored in the uterus. The next premenstrual phase is characterized by a new thickening of the uterine mucosa and its preparation to receive a fertilized egg (from the 14th to the 28th day).
Cyclic changes in the structure of the endometrium occur under the influence of ovarian hormones. In the ovary, in place of the matured egg that has reached the surface, the so-called corpus luteum develops. In the absence of fertilization of the egg, it exists for 12-14 days. If the egg is fertilized and pregnancy occurs, the corpus luteum remains for 6 months. Cells of the corpus luteum produce the hormone progesterone, which affects the condition of the uterine mucosa and the restructuring of the mother’s body during pregnancy.
The structure of the myometrium
The muscular lining of the uterus, the myometrium, makes up its main mass and has a thickness of 1.5 to 2 cm. The myometrium is built from smooth muscle tissue, the fibers of which are located in 3 layers (outer and inner - longitudinal, middle, the most powerful, - circular). During pregnancy, myometrial fibers greatly increase in size (up to 10 times in length and several times in thickness), so by the end of pregnancy the weight of the uterus reaches 1 kg. The shape of the uterus becomes rounded, and the length increases to 30 cm. Everyone can imagine the changes in the size of the belly of a pregnant woman. Such a powerful development of the muscular lining of the uterus is necessary for childbirth, when the ripe fetus is removed from the mother’s body by contraction of the uterus and abdominal muscles. After childbirth, the uterus undergoes reverse development, which ends after 6-8 weeks.
Thus, the uterus is an organ that periodically changes throughout life, which is associated with the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and childbirth.
The structure of the uterus: options outside the norm
Interesting data on individual variations in the shape and position of the uterus. The absence of half the uterus, complete or partial closure of the uterine cavity are described. Duplication of the uterus and the presence of a septum in its cavity are extremely rare. Sometimes the septum is present only in the area of the uterine fundus and is expressed to varying degrees (saddle-shaped, bicornuate uterus). The septum may extend to the vagina. The uterus often remains small, not reaching adult size (infantile uterus), which is combined with underdevelopment of the ovaries.
All these variants of the structure of the uterus are associated with the peculiarities of its development in the embryo from 2 tubes merging with each other (Müllerian ducts). Non-fusion of these ducts leads to doubling of the uterus and even the vagina, and a delay in the development of one of the ducts underlies the appearance of an asymmetrical, or one-horned, uterus. Failure of fusion of the ducts along one or another section leads to the appearance of partitions in the cavity of the uterus and vagina.
Rudiment of the male body: prostatic uterus
Men also have a utricle - a pinpoint depression on the wall of the urethra in its prostatic part, not far from the place where the vas deferens enters the urethra. This prostatic uterus is a rudimentary remnant of the Müllerian ducts, which are formed in the embryo, but simply do not develop in the male body.
The uterus is an unpaired hollow organ of the female genital area, which is located in the pelvic area, has the shape of a pear, and is intended for the development and gestation of a fertilized egg.
Structure: neck, body, bottom.
The fundus of the uterus, or fornix, is a convex pear-shaped and most massive part of the organ, located above the level of the confluence of the fallopian tubes. The middle hollow part of this organ is the body, consisting of three layers. The area where the body meets the neck is called the isthmus. The cervix extends into the vagina, attaches to it and ends in the so-called “uterine os”, surrounded by a muscle ring. Sperm penetrate through this opening, and at the end of the menstrual cycle, the rejected endometrium and blood are released. The uterine os or cervical canal is blocked by a mucus plug, which is pushed out during sexual intercourse to allow sperm into the uterine cavity.
Location
In nulliparous women, the uterus weighs up to 50 grams, after childbirth up to 100 grams. The length of the organ during the resting period is 7-8 cm, width 5 cm. During pregnancy, the uterus, due to the elasticity of the walls, reaches 32 cm in height and supports the weight of the fetus up to 5 kg.
Normally, the uterus is located between the bladder and rectum. In its normal position, its longitudinal axis coincides with the axis of the pelvis.
A slight tilt of the axis to the right or left is also considered normal. This does not affect a woman's ability to conceive and bear a child. Less common is a backward deviation of the longitudinal axis or a bent position. A high degree of deviation and curvature of the uterus can complicate a woman’s ability to conceive a child.
On both sides of the body of the uterus there are special ligaments that support it and ensure movement. For example, when the bladder is full, the organ moves back and forward when the rectum is full. The fastening and interweaving of the ligamentous apparatus is the reason why, in late pregnancy, it is not recommended to reach up with your arms: this position of the body leads to tension in the ligamentous apparatus, which can cause an undesirable change in the position of the fetus.
Shells
The wall of this organ has three layers. The surface layer is the serous membrane, or perimetrium. This is the part of the peritoneum that covers the top of the uterus. The middle layer is muscle tissue, or myometrium - a structure of complexly intertwined smooth fibers of muscle tissue, as well as bundles of connective tissue that have high elasticity. Depending on the direction of muscle fibers in the myometrium, three layers are distinguished: internal, middle circular (circular), and external.
The middle circular layer contains the largest number of particularly large veins, vessels, and lymphatic ducts. The muscles of the uterus in a woman’s body are among the strongest. Their function is to push the baby out during childbirth. It is at this point that the muscles of the uterus fully develop their potential. They also protect the fetus during gestation. These muscles are always in good shape. Contractions intensify during sexual intercourse and menstruation. These movements help promote sperm and shed the endometrium.
The inner mucosa, or endometrium, is the inner layer formed by cells of single-layer columnar epithelium. It contains the uterine glands. Normally up to 3 mm.
Menstrual cycle and pregnancy
The endometrium changes under the influence of sex hormones. From the beginning of the first day of menstruation, processes occur in the endometrium that prepare the uterus for pregnancy. If fertilization and “planting” of the fertilized egg does not occur, tissues unnecessary to the body are rejected, and menstrual bleeding occurs.
Video: Visual description of the menstrual cycle
Then the cycle of processes begins again. Depending on the duration of the monthly cycle, the endometrium either increases in volume, preparing the “soil” for the implantation of the fertilized egg, or exfoliates and is pushed out if pregnancy does not occur. On average, the duration of the menstrual cycle is 26-28 days.
The mucous “plug” of the cervix prevents the penetration of pathogenic microorganisms into the uterus and fallopian tubes. During ovulation and menstruation, the mucus plug comes out to allow sperm to enter and blood to flow out during menstruation. At this time, the protection of the female body from sexually transmitted infections is significantly reduced. That is why doctors recommend that women undergo preventive examinations with a gynecologist and carefully choose their sexual partner.
Pregnancy occurs when sperm reach the egg, implant into it, and the uterine lining takes on the role of a bed for the embryo. Hormonal levels change during pregnancy, stopping the rejection of the endometrium and the onset of menstruation. During pregnancy, bleeding from the vagina is a reason to consult a doctor.
Pathology
Developmental disorders can be caused by congenital pathologies of the uterus:
The lowest degree of severity of bicornuate is a saddle-shaped uterus, the highest degree is complete bicornuity with a single cervix. With such an anomaly, there may be no problems with conception, but the course of pregnancy is purely individual. Typically, abnormalities in the development of the uterus bring with them problems with the genitourinary and endocrine systems, which can negatively affect the gestation of the fetus.
Location anomalies
They may occur in connection with pathologies of other abdominal organs or be of a congenital nature. The following location anomalies are distinguished:
Inflammatory diseases:
- Endometritis - inflammation of the mucous membrane;
- Myometritis - inflammation of the muscle layer;
- Endomyometritis - double inflammation of the endometrium and myometrium;
- Pelvioperitonitis is an inflammation of the peritoneum covering the internal organs.
Diagnostic methods
Depending on the nature of the pathologies of the female reproductive system, the doctor may prescribe studies:
- ultrasound (ultrasound);
- X-ray;
- hormonal;
- colposcopy (microscopic examination of the cervix);
- (visual examination of the uterine cavity);
- fertiloscopy (examination of fallopian tube patency);
- cytological (cellular);
- (tissue section);
Infertility is one of the consequences that occurs when there is an abnormality in the structure or development of the female genital organs. Statistics say that every second woman facing infertility has connective tissue adhesions or disturbances in the peristalsis of the fallopian tubes, as a result of ongoing or past inflammatory processes in the pelvic organs.
If you notice problems conceiving a child, remember that in most cases, failures and disorders of sexual function can be treated and corrected. The main thing is to consult a doctor in a timely manner.
The uterus is an organ of the female body that has a slit-like cavity. Some women and girls do not know exactly where the uterus is. This organ is located in the pelvic area, between the rectum and bladder. The uterus of a nulliparous woman is smaller in size, weighs approximately 50 g, is 7 cm long, 4 cm wide, and the wall thickness is approximately 2.7 cm. The uterus of women who have given birth is slightly larger in parameters, on average 2 cm more than the above data. The weight of an organ that bears one or more children can reach 80-100 g.
Where is the uterus?
As mentioned above, the location of the uterus is adjacent to the rectum and bladder. The organ has a shape reminiscent of an inverted pear, that is, its wide part faces up, and the narrow part faces down. Its size and shape can vary dramatically at different periods of a woman’s life. The greatest changes occur during pregnancy and the period after childbirth.
Structure of the uterus
Nature is very smart; she created the woman’s reproductive organ in such a way that it could stretch significantly during gestation and return to normal after childbirth, shrinking almost to its original size. The walls of the uterus are very strong and elastic; they consist of muscle fibers located along and across the organ. Due to its properties, it can stretch significantly depending on the size of the fetus. If there is no pregnancy, the volume of the uterus is very small, but during pregnancy, as the period increases, the organ can support a placenta weighing 0.4 kg, up to 1-2 liters of amniotic fluid and a baby up to 5 kg.
Where is a woman’s uterus located and what does it consist of?
The uterus consists of three parts:
- necks;
- bodies;
The walls of the uterus are lined with three layers. This:
- outer covering, or serous membrane - perimeter;
- middle layer - myometrium;
- the inner layer is the endometrium.
The endometrium is a mucous membrane that undergoes changes every month. This depends on the phase of the menstrual cycle. In the absence of pregnancy, the endometrium is rejected by the uterus and excreted along with the blood, at which point menstruation begins, which lasts from three to 6 days, depending on the woman’s physiology. They may be accompanied by weakness and nagging pain in the area where the uterus is located. If a woman becomes pregnant, the body begins to secrete hormones that prevent the endometrium from separating from the walls of the uterus. This is necessary so that it can attach to the wall of the uterus and begin its development. In the first weeks of pregnancy, it is from the endometrium that the embryo receives the necessary nutrition.
Myometrium is a muscular layer, the main component of the walls of the uterus. The size of the organ changes during pregnancy thanks to this particular part of the membrane. The myometrium is a collection of muscle fibers that increase due to the proliferation of myocytes (muscle cells), as a result of which the uterus lengthens 10 times and thickens up to 4-5 cm. The walls thicken in the first half of pregnancy, then the uterus begins to increase, stretching, and towards the end the walls of the uterus are only 0.5-1 cm thick.
Where is the cervix located?
Did you know that the stage of the ovulation cycle can be indicated by the cervix. Where it is is not so difficult to determine. This is the junction of the vagina and the body of the uterus. The cervix consists of supravaginal and vaginal parts. The lower end of the vaginal part ends with an opening, the edges of which form the anterior and posterior lips. The body of the uterus in cross-section resembles a triangle; its truncated lower angle continues into the cervix.
The internal canal of the cervix has glands that secrete vaginal mucus, the texture and color of which depend on the phase of the cycle, and are also an indicator of women's health. The cervix itself is located at a distance of approximately 7.5-15 cm and is shaped like a donut with a small hole in the middle.
Now you know exactly where the uterus and cervix are.
Almost every person knows where a woman’s uterus is located. But this knowledge is especially important for the fair sex, since women’s health depends on the correct location and condition of this organ. Therefore, it is useful for girls from adolescence to be interested in its structure and location. After all, it is quite possible that such information will help avoid serious problems in the future.
Where is a woman's uterus located?
The pelvic cavity is the place where the location of the uterus in women is considered normal. In front of the organ is the bladder, and behind it is the rectum. The uterus is very light and weighs no more than 50 g, although after a woman becomes a mother, it increases in size, which is also not a pathology. In this case, the weight of the organ can reach 100 g.
Not only the location of the uterus is important, but also its size. In young girls, it reaches 7 cm in length and 4 cm in width. After childbirth, the organ contracts, but does not reach its original values, becoming larger and wider by an average of 2 cm.
Structure of the uterus: main points
Having figured out where the uterus is located, it is necessary to inquire about the structure of a woman’s uterus. This organ is extremely elastic and can stretch and return to normal, which usually happens after a woman becomes a mother.
Its elastic and durable walls consist mainly of muscle fibers. The muscles are located both lengthwise and crosswise. They are represented by three layers:
- endometrium;
- myometrium;
- perimetry.
In addition, it is customary to separate three parts of this reproductive organ: the neck, the body and the fundus. This is the structure of the uterus in a woman who does not have developmental pathologies.
The structure of the cervix and its location
Once knowledge has been gained regarding the location of the uterus in women, the structure of the cervix can be studied in more detail. It resembles a cylinder in appearance, the length is on average 3 cm, the width is 0.5 cm less. The older a woman gets, the more pregnancies she has had, the more this part of the reproductive organ increases in size.
Every gynecologist can visually judge where the cervix is in a healthy woman, since during a standard examination, using mirrors, he can see it. It is located no further than 12 cm deep into the vagina, which with its posterior surface is in contact with the cervix. Her body is located directly behind the bladder.
Uterus and ovaries: location in the pelvic cavity
In the small pelvis, on one side and the other, you can find the ovaries. They are attached to the ovarian fossa. They are connected to the uterus by tubes, which together with the ovaries are called appendages.
The ovaries are not always located strictly symmetrically relative to each other. One of the organs is located higher, and the other slightly lower. The same can be said about their size; as a rule, the right one is slightly heavier than the left ovary. However, normally, the color and shape of the organs should not differ.
Location of the uterus by week of pregnancy: what changes
If normally the location of the uterus in a woman does not change, then when she carries a child, the situation becomes radically different. After 12 weeks, it increases significantly in size, so that an experienced doctor is able to determine it by palpation.
The location of the uterus changes by week of pregnancy as the fetus grows. Up to 12 weeks it is located directly in the abdominal cavity, after this period it begins to rise higher. Therefore, closer to 16 weeks, it is located in the navel area, located between it and the pubis. And by the 20th week its bottom reaches the level of the navel. As the child grows, the uterus also grows, moving higher and higher towards the chest. At the end of pregnancy, it is so high that it often makes it difficult for a woman to breathe, while at the same time pinching the bladder and intestines.
The location of the cervix during pregnancy, like the uterus itself, also does not remain unchanged. Closer to childbirth, it decreases significantly, and its length is only 15 mm maximum.
Anomalies of the structure of the uterus
The structure of the female uterus is not always anatomically correct; sometimes certain irregularities occur. The body of the organ may descend, partially fall out with certain physical efforts; in more advanced cases, the cervix can be visible from the genital slit, and sometimes it falls out completely. If the position of the cervix is disturbed, this requires immediate contact with a doctor for a therapeutic course or surgical intervention.
Many women begin to panic when they learn during a gynecological examination that they have a posterior uterus, or, in other words, a uterus. There is no need to worry about this; this option for the location of the organ does not in any way affect the woman’s general well-being and does not require medication or any other type of influence.
Representatives of the fairer sex need to know where the uterus is and where the cervix is located. This knowledge will be useful to both a young girl and a mature woman to avoid health problems.
