Ligaments associated with the uterus Flashcards
how can the ligaments of the uterus be divided?
by where they attach to the uterus:
superior aspect
middle aspect
what are the superior aspect ligaments of the uterus supported by?
supported by the broad ligament and the round ligaments
what are the middle aspect ligaments of the uterus supported by?
supported by the cardinal, pubocervical and uterosacral ligaments
what is the inferior aspect of uterus supported by?
structures in the pelvic floor – the levator ani, perineal membrane and perineal body
what is the round ligament a remnant of?
gubernaculum
where does the round ligament of the uterus originate from?
It originates at the uterine horns
where does the round ligament of the uterus attach?
attaches to the labia majora, passing through the inguinal canal
what are the uterine horns?
the points at which the fallopian tubes enter the uterus
what can be a source of pain during pregnancy?
The round ligament can be a source of pain during pregnancy
why can the round ligament be a source of pain during pregnancy?
due to the increased force placed on the ligament by the expanding uterus
what are the cardinal ligaments also known as?
the lateral, transverse cervical, or Mackenrodt’s ligaments
where are the cardinal ligaments located?
along the inferior border of the broad ligament
what is contained within the cardinal ligaments?
the uterine artery and uterine veins
Where do the cardinal ligaments arise from?
These ligaments arise from the side of the cervix and the lateral fornix of the vagina
what do the cardinal ligaments provide?
They provide an extensive attachment on the lateral pelvic wall at the level of the ischial spines
what do the fibres of the cardinal ligaments interdigitate with?
with fibres from the uterosacral ligaments
when are cardinal ligaments often removed?
during a hysterectomy
why are the cardinal ligaments removed during a hysterectomy?
due to a malignancy, the cardinal ligaments are often removed as they are common reservoir of cancerous cells
what are the pubocervical ligaments?
bilateral structures
what do the pubocervical ligaments attach to?
attach the cervix to the posterior surface of the pubic symphysis
what is the function of the pubocervical ligaments?
support the uterus within the pelvic cavity
what are the uterosacral ligaments?
The uterosacral ligaments are also bilateral fibrous bands
what do the uterosacral ligaments attach?
attach the cervix to the sacrum
what are the uterosacral ligaments also known as?
the recto-uterine ligaments or sacrocervical ligaments
what do the uterosacral ligaments support?
supports the uterus and holds it in place
