Anatomy of the Female Pelvis Flashcards

1
Q

What is the vulva, and what does the term mean?

A

The vulva refers to the female external genitalia. The term means “covering” in Latin

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2
Q

What are the main components of the vulva?

A
  • Mons pubis
  • Labia (Labia majora and labia minora)
  • Vestibule
  • Vestibular bulb
  • Greater vestibular glands
  • Clitoris
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3
Q

What is the etymology and meaning of “Mons Pubis”?

A

Answer: “Mons pubis” translates to “mountain on the pubis” in Latin.

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4
Q

Where is the mons pubis located, and what does it consist of?

A

The mons pubis is a rounded fatty pad located over the pubic symphysis, which becomes covered with hair after puberty.

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5
Q

What is the etymology and meaning of “Labia Majora”?

A

“Labia majora” means “bigger lips” in Latin.

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6
Q

What are the defining features of the labia majora?

A

They are long, hair-covered skin folds filled with fatty tissue.
They extend from the mons pubis to the perineum.
The labia majora form the lateral boundaries of the vulva.

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7
Q

What structure is the labia majora homologous to in males?

A

The scrotum; both derive from the labioscrotal swelling during embryonic development.

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8
Q

Do the labia majora join posteriorly?

A

No, the labia majora do not join posteriorly.

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9
Q

What is the etymology and meaning of “Labia Minora”?

A

“Labia minora” translates to “smaller lips” in Latin.

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10
Q

What are the key characteristics of the labia minora?

A

They are hairless cutaneous folds.
Devoid of fat and typically lie within the labia majora.

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11
Q

What is the vestibule in the context of female anatomy?

A

The vestibule is a recess or entrance hall enclosed by the labia minora

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12
Q

What key structures are housed within the vestibule?

A

External urethral orifice (anteriorly).
Vaginal orifice (posterior to the urethral orifice).

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13
Q

What is the fourchette, and where is it located?

A

The fourchette, also known as the frenulum of the labia, is a ridge at the posterior point of the vestibule, formed by the joining of the right and left labia minora.

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14
Q

What are the greater vestibular glands and where are they located?

A

They are paired, pea-sized glands located lateral to the vaginal orifice, deep to the posterior part of each labium minorum

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15
Q

What is the primary function of the greater vestibular glands?

A

They secrete lubricating mucus into the vaginal orifice during sexual arousal, facilitating entry of the penis.

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16
Q

Where do the greater vestibular glands open?

A

Answer: They have openings near the vaginal orifice for mucus secretion.

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17
Q

What is the etymology of “clitoris,” and where is it situated?

A

“Clitoris” means “hill” and is located just anterior to the vestibule.

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18
Q

Describe the structure and function of the clitoris.

A
  • The clitoris is composed of erectile tissue and is highly sensitive to touch.
  • It swells with blood during sexual stimulation.
  • It is a homologue of the penis but does not contain the urethra.
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19
Q

What is the glans clitoris, and what covers it?

A

The glans clitoris is the only visible part of the clitoris and is hooded by the prepuce of the clitoris.

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20
Q

What are the main parts of the clitoris?

A

The clitoris consists of:
- Root (attached part): Formed by the proximal parts of corpora cavernosa.

  • Body (free part): Formed by the unattached parts of corpora cavernosa.
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21
Q

How is the body of the clitoris connected to the pubic symphysis?

A

The body of the clitoris is attached to the pubic symphysis via the suspensory ligament.

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22
Q

What are the main erectile tissues in the clitoris?

A

The main erectile tissues are:
Corpora cavernosa
Bulbs of the vestibule: Located on each side of the vestibule, deep to the bulbospongiosus muscle.

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23
Q

What function do the erectile tissues of the clitoris serve?

A

The corpora cavernosa and bulbs of the vestibule engorge with blood during sexual stimulation, forming the basis of the female sexual response.

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24
Q

Is there a corpus spongiosum in the clitoris?

A

Answer: No, there is no corpus spongiosum in the clitoris.

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25
Q

What are the ovaries?

A

The ovaries are paired almond-shaped endocrine glands.

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26
Q

Where are the ovaries located?

A

The ovaries are located on the lateral sides of the uterus, against the bony lateral wall of the true pelvis, adjacent to the iliac vessels.

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27
Q

What is the anatomical classification of the ovaries?

A

The ovaries are classified as retroperitoneal organs.

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28
Q

How are the ovaries suspended within the pelvic cavity?

A

The ovaries are suspended by various mesenteries and ligaments, including:
Mesovarium (the mesentery of the ovary)
Suspensory ligament of the ovary
Ligament of the ovary (connects the ovary to the uterus)

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29
Q

What is the primary function of the ovaries?

A

The primary function of the ovaries is to secrete steroid sex hormones, including estrogens and androgens.

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30
Q

What are the uterine tubes also known as?

A

The uterine tubes are also known as oviducts.

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31
Q

What is the anatomical course of the uterine tubes?

A

The uterine tubes begin laterally near an ovary and end medially into the superior part of the uterus.

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32
Q

What are the primary functions of the uterine tubes?

A

The uterine tubes function to:
Receive the ovulated oocyte
Serve as the site for fertilization

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33
Q

What are the main parts of each uterine tube?

A

The main parts of each uterine tube include:
Infundibulum
Ampulla
Isthmus
Fimbriae (finger-like projections at the end of the infundibulum)

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34
Q

What role do the fimbriae play in the function of the uterine tubes?

A

The fimbriae help to capture the ovulated oocyte from the ovary and guide it into the uterine tube.

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35
Q

What are the uterine tubes also known as?

A

The uterine tubes are also known as oviducts.

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36
Q

What is the anatomical course of the uterine tubes?

A

The uterine tubes begin laterally near an ovary and end medially into the superior part of the uterus.

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37
Q

What are the primary functions of the uterine tubes?

A

The uterine tubes function to:
Receive the ovulated oocyte
Serve as the site for fertilization.

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38
Q

What are the main parts of each uterine tube?

A

The main parts of each uterine tube include:
Infundibulum
Ampulla
Isthmus
Fimbriae (finger-like projections at the end of the infundibulum)

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39
Q

What role do the fimbriae play in the function of the uterine tubes?

A

The fimbriae help to capture the ovulated oocyte from the ovary and guide it into the uterine tube.

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40
Q

What are fimbriae, and what is their function?

A

Fimbriae are ciliated finger-like projections that surround the infundibulum of the uterine tubes

Their function is to help capture the ovulated oocyte from the ovary and guide it into the uterine tube.

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41
Q

What is the infundibulum, and what is its role?

A

The infundibulum is the lateral region of the uterine tube that opens into the peritoneal cavity. It serves as the entry point for the oocyte after ovulation.

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42
Q

Describe the ampulla and its significance in the uterine tubes.

A

The ampulla is the expanded portion of the uterine tube medial to the infundibulum. It forms approximately half the length of the uterine tube and is the primary site of fertilization.

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43
Q

What does the isthmus refer to in the context of the uterine tubes?

A

The isthmus is the medial third of the uterine tube, characterized as a narrow passage that connects the ampulla to the uterus.

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44
Q

What is the mesosalpinx, and what is its function?

A

The mesosalpinx is a part of the broad ligament that supports each uterine tube. It serves to stabilize the uterine tubes in the pelvic cavity

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45
Q

What is the etymology of the term “mesosalpinx”?

A

Answer: The term mesosalpinx comes from the Greek words meso meaning “middle” or “mesentery,” and salpinx, meaning “trumpet,” referring to the shape of the uterine tube

46
Q

What is the anatomical location of the uterus?

A

The uterus is a hollow, thick-walled organ located in the true pelvis, positioned anterior to the rectum and posterosuperior to the urinary bladder.

47
Q

What are the primary functions of the uterus?

A

The uterus receives, retains, and nourishes the fertilized oocyte throughout pregnancy and is involved in menstruation and labor processes.

48
Q

Name the main parts of the uterus.

A

The main parts of the uterus include the fundus, body, isthmus, and cervix.

49
Q

Describe the fundus of the uterus.

A

The fundus is the rounded region of the uterus that is located superior to the entrance of the uterine tubes.

50
Q

What constitutes the body of the uterus?

A

The body is the major portion of the uterus, extending from the fundus to the isthmus.

51
Q

What is the isthmus of the uterus?

A

The isthmus is the narrowed region that is located inferior to the body of the uterus.

52
Q

Define the cervix in the context of the uterus.

A

The cervix is the region inferior to the body of the uterus, acting as the lower part of the uterine canal.

53
Q

List the layers of the uterine wall.

A

The layers of the uterine wall are the endometrium, myometrium, and perimetrium.

54
Q

Describe the endometrium and its significance.

A

The endometrium is the mucosal lining of the uterine cavity. It is crucial for implantation of the fertilized egg and supports early pregnancy.

55
Q

What is the myometrium, and what is its function?

A

The myometrium consists of interlacing bundles of smooth muscle that contract during childbirth to expel the baby.

56
Q

Define the perimetrium.

A

The perimetrium is the outer serous membrane covering the uterus, providing structural support and protection.

57
Q

What are the primary functions of the cervix?

A

The cervix serves to secrete mucus that fills the cervical canal and covers the external os, preventing the spread of bacteria from the vagina into the uterus. The cervical mucus also blocks the entry of sperm, except during midcycle.

58
Q

Where is the cervix located anatomically?

A

The cervix is the region inferior to the uterine body, connecting with the cavity of the body via the internal os and with the vagina inferiorly via the external os.

59
Q

What is the function of the vagina?

A

The vagina provides a passageway for the delivery of an infant, receives the penis and semen during sexual intercourse, and acts as a thin-walled tube located inferior to the uterus, anterior to the rectum, and posterior to the urethra and bladder.

60
Q

What is the etymology of the term “vagina”?

A

The term vagina comes from the Latin word meaning “sheath.”

61
Q

Describe the vaginal orifice.

A

The vaginal orifice is the external opening of the vagina.

62
Q

What is the hymen, and what is its significance?

A

The hymen is a mucosal membrane that forms an incomplete diaphragm at the vaginal orifice, often considered a marker of virginity but varies greatly among individuals.

63
Q

Define the vaginal fornix.

A

The vaginal fornix is a recess formed between the margin of the cervix and the vaginal wall.

64
Q

What are the subdivisions of the vaginal fornix?

A

The vaginal fornix can be subdivided into:
Anterior fornix
Posterior fornix
Lateral fornices (n=2)

65
Q

How does the cervix connect to the vagina?

A

The cervix connects to the vagina inferiorly via the external os, allowing for the passage of menstrual fluid, sperm, and during childbirth.

66
Q

What role does cervical mucus play in relation to sperm?

A

Cervical mucus serves as a barrier that blocks the entry of sperm into the uterus, except during the midcycle when hormonal changes make it more permeable for sperm transport.

67
Q

What tructures supports the uterus?

A

The uterus is supported by various ligaments and mesenteries.

68
Q

What is the mesometrium?

A

The mesometrium is a mesentery that anchors the uterus to the lateral pelvic walls.

69
Q

What are the functions of the lateral/transverse cervical (cardinal) ligaments?

A

The lateral/transverse cervical (cardinal) ligaments anchor the cervix and superior vagina to the lateral pelvic walls.

70
Q

Describe the role of the round ligaments of the uterus.

A

The round ligaments of the uterus bind the uterus to the anterior body wall.

71
Q

What is the uterosacral ligament and its function?

A

The uterus sacral ligament attaches from the cervix to the anterior aspect of the sacrum, providing support and stability to the uterus.

72
Q

Describe the pubocervical ligament and its attachment points.

A

The pubocervical ligament extends from the cervix and upper vagina to the anterior pelvic wall, where it attaches to the posterior aspect of the pubic bones.

73
Q

What are the components of the broad ligament of the uterus?

A

The broad ligament of the uterus consists of three components:
Mesovarium
Mesosalpinx
Mesometrium

74
Q

What other ligaments are contained within the broad ligament?

A

The broad ligament contains the:
Suspensory ligament of the ovary
Round ligament of the uterus

75
Q

What is the broad ligament of the uterus?

A

The broad ligament is a fold of peritoneum that supports the uterus, ovaries, and uterine tubes.

76
Q

What vessels travel within the suspensory ligament of the ovary?

A

The ovarian vessels travel within the suspensory ligament of the ovary.

77
Q

What are the primary mesenteries of the uterus, and what is their function?

A

Mesometrium is the main mesentery of the uterus.
Function: It anchors the uterus to the lateral pelvic walls for lateral support.

78
Q

What is the lateral/transverse cervical (cardinal) ligament, and what is its role?

A

The lateral/transverse cervical (cardinal) ligament is one of the primary support ligaments of the uterus.

Function: Anchors the cervix and superior part of the vagina to the lateral pelvic walls, providing stability to the lower uterus and vaginal canal.

79
Q

Where do the round ligaments of the uterus attach, and what purpose do they serve?

A

Attachment: These ligaments bind the uterus to the anterior body wall.
Function: They help maintain the uterus in its anteverted (tilted forward) position, reducing posterior shifting.

80
Q

Describe the uterosacral ligaments. Where are they located, and what function do they serve?

A

Location: These ligaments extend from the cervix to the sacrum.

Function: They provide posterior support to the uterus, helping keep it aligned and preventing it from moving too far forward.

81
Q

What is the pubocervical ligament, and how does it contribute to uterine support?

A
  • Description: The pubocervical ligament extends from the cervix and upper vagina to the anterior pelvic wall.
  • Attachment Points: Connects to the posterior aspect of the pubic bones.
  • Function: Offers anterior support to prevent excessive backward movement of the uterus.
82
Q

What is the broad ligament of the uterus, and what components does it contain?

A

A double fold of peritoneum that supports the uterus, ovaries, and uterine tubes.
Components:
Mesovarium: Supports the ovaries.
Mesosalpinx: Supports the uterine tubes.
Mesometrium: Supports the uterus.

83
Q

Which ligaments are contained within the broad ligament, and what are their functions?

A

Suspensory Ligament of the Ovary:
Function: Contains the ovarian vessels and supports the ovary.
Round Ligament of the Uterus:
Function: Provides anterior support to the uterus, maintaining its position relative to the anterior body wall.

84
Q

How does the mesosalpinx contribute to the stability of the uterine tube?

A

The mesosalpinx is a portion of the broad ligament.
Function: It supports the uterine tube (fallopian tube), anchoring it within the pelvic cavity and assisting in guiding the oocyte from the ovary to the uterus.

85
Q

What role does the mesovarium play in ovarian support?

A

Part of the broad ligament.
Function: Supports the ovary by providing a stable attachment, allowing it to remain adjacent to the fallopian tube for oocyte release.

86
Q

Describe the suspensory ligament of the ovary. What vessels does it contain, and what is its function?

A

This ligament extends from the ovary to the lateral pelvic wall.
Contents: It contains the ovarian vessels (artery and vein).
Function: Supports the ovary and helps deliver blood supply and drainage to and from the ovary.

87
Q

What is the origin of the uterine artery?

A

The uterine artery originates from the anterior division of the internal iliac artery.

88
Q

What are the primary branches of the uterine artery?

A

Ascending Branch: Supplies the superior portions of the uterus.
Descending Branch: Supplies the cervix and lower uterine segments.
Arcuate Arterioles: Smaller arteries that form an arcuate (curved) pattern around the uterus.
Helicine Arterioles: Terminal branches that penetrate deeply into the endometrium to supply the uterine lining.

89
Q

Describe the course and relation of the uterine artery in relation to the ureter.

A

The uterine artery crosses the ureter anteriorly as it travels within the broad ligament of the uterus.

90
Q

What is the clincal significance of the close relation of the uterine artery to the ureter?

A

This close relation is critical during surgeries like a hysterectomy, where the uterine artery is often ligated or cauterized. During this procedure, care is taken to avoid damaging the ureter.

91
Q

Why might the uterine artery be embolized clinically?

A

Embolization of the uterine artery is commonly done to treat uterine fibroids. By blocking blood flow to fibroids, the procedure reduces their size and symptoms.

92
Q

How does the uterine artery anastomose with other arteries?

A

Ascending Branch: Ascends the uterus within the broad ligament and anastomoses with branches of the ovarian artery to create a collateral blood supply.

Descending Branch: Supplies the cervix and anastomoses with branches of the vaginal artery, providing an additional blood supply to the lower uterus and cervix. breakdown

93
Q

What is the clinical significance of the uterine artery in a hysterectomy?

A

During a hysterectomy, the uterine artery is ligated or cauterized to prevent bleeding. Due to its proximity to the ureter, surgeons must be cautious to avoid ureteral injury.

94
Q

Explain the function of arcuate and helicine arterioles within the uterus

A
  • Arcuate Arterioles: Distribute blood around the uterus in a curved pattern.
  • Helicine Arterioles: Penetrate the endometrium to supply blood to the uterine lining, supporting the endometrium during the menstrual cycle.
95
Q

What is the relationship between the uterine artery and the ovarian artery?

A

The ascending branch of the uterine artery travels up the uterus and anastomoses with the ovarian artery within the broad ligament, creating a continuous blood supply between the uterus and ovary.

96
Q

Summarize the key points about the uterine artery’s origin, course, branches, and clinical significance.

A

Origin: Anterior division of the internal iliac artery.
Course: Crosses the ureter anteriorly in the broad ligament.
Branches:
Ascending branch (anastomoses with ovarian artery).
Descending branch (anastomoses with vaginal artery).
Arcuate and Helicine arterioles (supply the endometrium).
Clinical Significance: Ligated in hysterectomies, embolized for fibroid treatment.

97
Q

What is the origin of the uterine artery?

A

The anterior division of the internal iliac artery.

98
Q

How does the ascending branch of the uterine artery anastomose?

A

It ascends the uterus within the broad ligament and anastomoses with branches of the ovarian artery.

99
Q

What is the role of the ascending branch of the uterine artery?

A

It provides a collateral blood supply to the upper uterus and adjacent ovarian tissues.

100
Q

Describe the anastomosis of the descending branch of the uterine artery.

A

The descending branch supplies the cervix and anastomoses with branches of the vaginal artery.

101
Q

Why is the anastomosis between the uterine and ovarian arteries important?

A

It ensures a steady blood supply to the upper uterus, especially important for conditions requiring increased circulation, like pregnancy.

102
Q

How does the uterine artery contribute to the blood supply of the cervix?

A

Through its descending branch, which anastomoses with the vaginal artery.

103
Q

Where do the ovarian arteries originate?

A

From the abdominal aorta, below the renal arteries.

104
Q

Describe the course of the ovarian arteries as they descend into the pelvis.

A

The ovarian arteries descend posterior to the peritoneum, cross the external iliac vessels at the pelvic brim, and enter the pelvic cavity.

105
Q

Which structure do the ovarian arteries cross at the pelvic brim?

A

The external iliac vessels.

106
Q

In which ligament are the ovarian arteries contained?

A

The suspensory ligament of the ovary.

107
Q

What happens to the ovarian artery within the suspensory ligament of the ovary?

A

The ovarian artery splits into branches within the suspensory ligament.

108
Q

What are the three main branches of the ovarian artery?

A
  • Branch to mesovarium (supplies the ovary)
  • Branch to the broad ligament (supplies the uterine tube)
  • Branch that anastomoses with terminal branches of the uterine artery
109
Q

Where do the ovarian and uterine arteries anastomose?

A

Within the broad ligament near the uterine tube and ovary.

110
Q

What is the recto-uterine pouch?

A

A deep pelvic space between the anterior surface of the rectum and the posterior surface of the uterus, cervix, and upper vagina.

111
Q

What is the vesico-uterine pouch?

A

A pelvic space between the posterior surface of the urinary bladder and the anterior surface of the uterus.

112
Q

What is the clinical significance of the recto-uterine pouch?

A

It is the lowest point in the female pelvis where fluids can accumulate, often checked in cases of pelvic infection or ascites.