Changes

==Introduction==

==Introduction==

The cervix can be palpated transrectally and forms a sphincter controlling access to the [[Uterus - Anatomy & Physiology|uterus]].The anatomy of the cervical canal is adapted to suit a particular pattern of reproduction and its composition will alter under the influence of reproductive hormones. Not only does it respond to the fluctuation in oestrodiol during the [[Oestrous Cycle - Anatomy & Physiology|oestrous cycle]], but is responsive to prostaglandins and oxytocin in order to [[Cervical Softening - Anatomy & Physiology|'soften']] for [[Reproductive_System_- Anatomy & Physiology#Parturition|parturition]].

The cervix can be palpated transrectally and forms a sphincter controlling access to the [[Uterus - Anatomy & Physiology|uterus]].The anatomy of the cervical canal is adapted to suit a particular pattern of reproduction and its composition will alter under the influence of reproductive hormones. Not only does it respond to the fluctuation in oestrodiol during the [[Oestrous Cycle - Anatomy & Physiology|oestrous cycle]], but is responsive to prostaglandins and oxytocin in order to [[Cervical Softening - Anatomy & Physiology|'soften']] for [[:Category:Pregnancy and Parturition|parturition]].

==Structure==

==Structure==

* Provides a physical barrier to the uterus therefore preventing abortion due to infection by isolating the foetus from the external environment, closure is via the mucosal folds.

* Provides a physical barrier to the uterus therefore preventing abortion due to infection by isolating the foetus from the external environment, closure is via the mucosal folds.

* Cervical mucosa produces a mucous secretion which forms a mucous plug that helps close the cervical canal.  This is easily expelled during [[Oestrus Behaviour - Anatomy & Physiology|oestrus]] and [[Reproductive_System_- Anatomy & Physiology#Parturition|parturition]].

* Cervical mucosa produces a mucous secretion which forms a mucous plug that helps close the cervical canal.  This is easily expelled during [[Oestrus Behaviour - Anatomy & Physiology|oestrus]] and parturition.

* Barrier to sperm transport in the ewe, cow, bitch and queen, but not in the sow and mare.

* Barrier to sperm transport in the ewe, cow, bitch and queen, but not in the sow and mare.

* Assists with the storage and survival of sperm by admitting sperm to the genital tract at a time when [[Fertilisation - Anatomy & Physiology|fertilisation]] is possible (around [[Ovulation - Anatomy & Physiology|ovulation]]).

* Assists with the storage and survival of sperm by admitting sperm to the genital tract at a time when [[Fertilisation - Anatomy & Physiology|fertilisation]] is possible (around [[Ovulation - Anatomy & Physiology|ovulation]]).

* Mucus production for lubrication and to prevent microorganisms from entering the [[Uterus - Anatomy & Physiology|uterus]].

* Mucus production for lubrication and to prevent microorganisms from entering the [[Uterus - Anatomy & Physiology|uterus]].

* Remodels itself at the end of [[Reproductive_System_- Anatomy & Physiology#Gestation|gestation]] to allow birth and to stimulate the development of maternal behaviour.

* Remodels itself at the end of gestation to allow birth and to stimulate the development of maternal behaviour.

==Histology==

==Histology==