Cervix Flashcards
What are the two regions of the cervix?
ectocervix and endocervical canal/endocervix
What is the ectocervix?
the portion of the cervix that projects into the vagina
What type of cells line the ectocervix?
stratified squamous non-keratinized epithelium
what is the name of the opening between the endocervical canal and the ectocervix?
the external os
What type of cells line the endocervical canal?
mucus-secreting simple columnar epithelium
What is the name of the narrowing which marks the end of the endocervix and the beginning of the uterine cavity?
the internal os
What are the two main functions of the cervix?
facilitate passage of sperm into uterus
Maintains sterility of the upper female reproductive tract
Which structures dilate to help sperm enter the uterus?
external and internal os
How is the sterile environment of the upper reproductive tract maintained?
frequent shedding of endometrium
thick cervical mucus
Narrow external os
What is the arterial supply to the cervix?
uterine artery
What is the venous drainage of the cervix?
a plexus in the broad ligament that drains into the uterine veins.
Lymphatic drainage of the cervix is via the _________
iliac, sacral, aortic and inguinal lymph nodes
