Gebärmutter

Gebärmutter, also known as the uterus, is a pear-shaped muscular organ located in the female pelvis. It is a central part of the reproductive system. The primary function of the uterus is to nurture a fertilized egg and support the development of a fetus during pregnancy. It is connected to the fallopian tubes at its upper end and opens into the vagina at its lower end, forming the cervix.

The wall of the uterus consists of three layers: the endometrium, the myometrium, and the perimetrium. The endometrium is the inner lining that thickens cyclically in preparation for potential pregnancy. If fertilization does not occur, this lining is shed during menstruation. The myometrium is the thick, muscular middle layer responsible for uterine contractions during labor. The perimetrium is the outer serous layer.

Hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, play a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and preparing the uterus for pregnancy. After menopause, when a woman's reproductive capacity ceases, the uterus undergoes structural changes due to hormonal shifts. Conditions affecting the uterus can include fibroids, endometriosis, and various infections, which may impact fertility and overall reproductive health.