Livmorens

Livmorens, or the uterus, is a muscular, hollow organ in the female pelvis that houses the developing embryo and fetus during pregnancy and plays a central role in the menstrual cycle. It sits between the bladder anteriorly and the rectum posteriorly. In adults it is pear-shaped, typically about 7–8 cm long, with a cavity that expands during pregnancy.

Anatomy and structure: The uterus has three regions—fundus (the upper dome), the corpus (body), and the cervix (the lower part that opens into the vagina). The wall comprises three layers: the perimetrium (outer serosa), the myometrium (thick muscular middle layer), and the endometrium (inner mucosa). The endometrium changes with the menstrual cycle, having a functional layer that sheds during menses and a basal layer that regenerates it. The cervix contains the cervical canal and connects to the vagina.

Blood supply and innervation: The main blood supply is via the uterine arteries, branches of the internal iliac arteries. Venous drainage goes to the uterine veins, and lymphatics drain to pelvic nodes. Autonomic innervation includes sympathetic and parasympathetic fibers from the pelvic nerves.

Function and development: The uterus develops from the Müllerian ducts during fetal life. Its functions include supporting menstruation, enabling embryo implantation, and providing mechanical support, nutrition, and contractions during pregnancy. Labor is powered by coordinated uterine contractions that facilitate childbirth.

Clinical relevance: Common conditions affecting the uterus include fibroids (leiomyomas), endometriosis, adenomyosis, and cervical insufficiency. Imaging with ultrasound or MRI is routinely used to assess uterine structure and guide management.