The uterus

Almost half of humanity has it, and everyone starts their life in it: the uterus. But what exactly does the female sexual organ look like?

Structure of the uterus
The uterus, also called the womb, is one of the internal female sexual organs. There are two sections: the uterine body and the cervix. It consists of muscles whose shape is reminiscent of an inverted hollow pear and is located slightly above the pubic bone. In an adult woman, the uterus is only about 7-10 cm in size and is supported by the muscles of the pelvic floor. This also prevents the uterus from sinking. The uterus is held in position by various connective tissue structures (ligaments).

Uterine function
Every month, the uterus prepares for possible fertilization, which will ultimately result in a fetus that will grow over the next 9 months. During the fertile years, one egg matures per month over the course of the cycle. While the egg grows, the lining of the uterus prepares for the implantation of the egg.

This means that the hormones estrogen and progesterone increase the blood flow to the uterus, making it thicker. In the middle of the cycle, as soon as the egg is mature, ovulation occurs. If the egg is fertilized within a cycle, it implants itself in the uterine lining. This then grows to the size of two small footballs in order to ensure the embryo is nourished. No other human organ is capable of changing in size to such an extent.

However, if fertilization does not occur, the egg cell and the well-perfused uterine tissue are no longer needed by the body and are excreted via the menstrual period.

The uterus is not just for giving birth
The uterus continues to perform important functions even after menopause. As the central abdominal organ, it is interwoven with many other organs and is therefore partly responsible for the overall statics of the abdomen. With its muscles and nerves, it also has an influence on a woman's sexual sensation.

No matter what stage of life it is, the uterus performs important functions in the female body. Paying attention to your period and possible changes during pregnancy is therefore incredibly important.