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| ==Introduction== | | ==Introduction== |
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− | 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]]. |
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| ==Structure== | | ==Structure== |
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| * 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. |
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| ==Histology== | | ==Histology== |