Uterine Growth

Question 1

What are the 3 functions of the uterus?

Answer 1

1. Prepare- nourish developing foetus/ accomodate growing foetus and placenta.
2. Assist- expulsion of baby, placenta and membranes at birth.
3. Control- blood loss from placental site after birth. return by involution to nearly pre-pregnant state.

Question 2

What is the endometrium and what is its function?

Answer 2

The lining of the uterine cavity.

If implantation occurs cells undergo transformation known as decidual reaction and forms the decidua of pregnancy.

Question 3

What does the decidua do?

Answer 3

Provides nutrition and immunologically privileged site for the early embryo.

Question 4

What is the myometrium and what does it do?

Answer 4

The muscular wall of the uterus.

Provides support for the growing fetus and ultimately expels it during labour.

Question 5

What is the perimetrium and where is it located?

Answer 5

Thin layer of connective tissue collagen and elastic fibres.

It can be found draped over the uterus and oviduct.

Question 6

Name 3 adaptions to pregnancy.

Answer 6

1. Stimulated by HCG, relaxin, progesterone, oestrogen and oxytocin.
2. The myometrium in the corpus and fundus become thicker in the first few months.
3. At pace with fetal and placenta growth and also increased volume of amniotic fluid.