Uterus - Anatomy, Definition and Function - Human Anatomy | Kenhub

Summary

This educational video script delves into the anatomy and functions of the uterus, a vital organ in female reproduction. It describes the uterus's structure, including the fundus, body, isthmus, and cervix, and its connections to other pelvic structures. The script also covers the blood supply, innervation, and lymphatic system of the uterus, highlighting its role in fetal development and menstruation. Additionally, it touches on clinical aspects, such as hysterectomy procedures and their implications.

Takeaways

• 👶 The uterus, also known as the womb, is the site where babies develop during pregnancy.
• 📍 Located in the pelvic cavity, the uterus is a muscular structure about the size and shape of an upside-down pear.
• 🔍 The uterus can be anatomically divided into the fundus, body (corpus), isthmus, and cervix, each with specific functions.
• 🌱 The body of the uterus is where the fertilized egg (blastocyst) typically implants for pregnancy.
• 🔗 The uterus is connected to the vagina and is surrounded by structures like the broad ligament and uterine tubes.
• 👩‍⚕️ The ovaries, which produce and release eggs, are associated with the uterus and play a crucial role in reproduction.
• 🩸 The uterine artery and its branches supply blood to the uterus, with the uterine vein handling venous drainage.
• 💊 The uterus is innervated by sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves, controlling various functions.
• 🌐 Lymph from the uterus drains to the internal and external iliac nodes, and from the fundus to the para-aortic nodes.
• 🤰 The uterus provides mechanical protection, nutritional support, and waste removal for the developing fetus.
• 🛑 If fertilization doesn't occur, the uterus sheds its lining through menstruation.
• ⚕️ Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that can involve the removal of all or part of the uterus, and sometimes the ovaries and fallopian tubes.

Q & A

What is the primary function of the uterus?

The primary function of the uterus is to provide a site for the implantation and development of a fertilized egg, also known as the blastocyst, and to nurture the fetus during pregnancy.

Where is the uterus located in the body?

The uterus is located in the pelvic cavity of a female, between the bladder and the rectum, and is connected to the vagina inferiorly.

What are the four key parts of the uterus?

The four key parts of the uterus are the fundus, the body (corpus), the isthmus, and the cervix.

What is the typical size and shape of the uterus?

The uterus is about eight centimeters in length and is roughly the size and shape of an upside-down pear.

What is the purpose of the isthmus in the uterus?

The isthmus is the constricted part of the uterus between the body and the cervix, and it is where the uterine tubes connect to the uterus.

How does the uterus change during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, the uterus expands up into the abdominal cavity to accommodate the growing fetus and provides mechanical protection and nutritional support.

What is the role of the cervix in the reproductive system?

The cervix connects the uterine cavity to the lumen of the vagina and has two openings, the internal os and the external os, which play a role in menstruation and childbirth.

What is the function of the broad ligament of the uterus?

The broad ligament is a double layer of peritoneum that connects the uterus to the lateral walls of the pelvis and contains the uterine and ovarian arteries.

What is a hysterectomy and what are its types?

A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus. It can be a total hysterectomy, where the entire uterus is removed, or a subtotal hysterectomy, where only part of the uterus is removed. Sometimes, ovaries and fallopian tubes are also removed in a total hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy.

What are some common indications for a hysterectomy?

Common indications for a hysterectomy include reproductive malignancy, uterine prolapse, endometriosis, and major postpartum hemorrhage.

What are some potential complications of a hysterectomy?

Potential complications of a hysterectomy include hemorrhage, infection, pain, and complications related to general anesthesia.