Uterus - Anatomy & Physiology

BACK TO REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

Function

• Provides a suitable environment for embryo development and attachment.
• In response to increasing amounts of oxytocin production by the corpus luteum during the luteal phase the endometrium produces luteolytic PGF2a to cause degeneration of the corpus luteum.
• The uterus contributes varying amounts of maternal tissues towards the placenta.
• The myometrium is involved with sperm transport through the uterus towards the oviduct.
• Contrations of the myometrium during parturition is important for feotus and placenta expulsion.

Anatomical Location & Boundaries

The Uterus body and Uterine horns are located within the abdominal cavity dorsal to the Intestinal mass. -broad ligament?

Histology

The appearance of the uterus varies with the stages of the oestrus cycle. Follicular phase

Luteal phase

Anoestrus

Innervation

The uterus is innervated by both Sypathetic and Parasympathetic fibres which play a part in the regulation of uterine activity. This is highlighted by Iatrogenic manipulation of parturition using β-Adrenoreceptor Agonists for delaying parturition and Antagonists for inducing parturition. However, uterine activity and normal parturition can be acheived when these nerves are severed.

Vasculature

• Uterine branch of the Ovarian artery supplies the cranial parts of the Uterine horns.
• Uterine artery supplies the rest of the uterine horns and the uterine body. This is a branch off the Internal Iliac artery in most domestic species, except the Mare where insted it is a branch off the External Iliac artery. The Uterine artery and the Ovarian artery anastomose within the Broad ligament.