A muscular pear-shaped organ in the female pelvis where a fertilized egg implants and a fetus develops during pregnancy.
Structure
The uterus has a fundus at the top, a body that holds the developing fetus, and a narrow cervix that opens into the vagina. Its wall has three layers: endometrium, myometrium, and perimetrium.
Function
Each menstrual cycle the endometrium thickens in preparation for implantation. If no pregnancy occurs, the lining is shed. During pregnancy the muscular wall stretches enormously, then contracts in labor to deliver the baby.
Clinical note
Fibroids, endometriosis, and uterine cancers are common conditions affecting the organ.
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