cervix Flashcards
where is the cervix?
the lower portion of the uterus (an organ of the female reproductive tract)
what does the cervix connect?
It connects the vagina with the main body of the uterus (acting as a gateway between them)
why are the cervix and uterus considered as separate anatomical structures?
Anatomically and histologically, the cervix is distinct from the uterus
what is the cervix composed of?
2 regions:
the ectocervix
the endocervical canal (endocervix)
what is the ectocervix?
portion of the cervix that projects into the vagina
what is the ectocervix lined by?
stratified squamous non-keratinized epithelium
what is the opening in the ectocervix?
the external os
what does the external os mark?
the transition from the ectocervix to the endocervical canal
what is the endocervix (endocervical canal)?
the more proximal, and ‘inner’ part of the cervix
what is the endocervical canal lined by?
a mucus-secreting simple columnar epithelium
what begins when the endocervical canal ends?
the uterine cavity begins, at a narrowing
what is the narrowing from the endocervical canal to the uterine cavity called?
the internal os
function of the cervix?
facilitates the passage of sperm
Maintains sterility of the upper female reproductive tract
where does cervix facilitates the passage of sperm into?
into the uterine cavity
how does cervix facilitates the passage of sperm?
via dilation of the external and internal os
