The pouch of Douglas, also known as the rectouterine pouch, is located between the back of the uterus and the front of the proximal rectum.
Detailed Location of the Pouch of Douglas
The rectouterine pouch (pouch of Douglas) is a significant anatomical space within the female pelvis. Its depth is influenced by the distention of the rectum and bladder.
- Definition: It's the deepest point of the peritoneal cavity in the female pelvis.
- Boundaries:
- Anteriorly: Back of the uterus
- Posteriorly: Front of the proximal rectum
Factors Influencing the Depth
The depth of the pouch varies based on:
- Rectal distention: A full rectum pushes the posterior boundary further, potentially shallowing the pouch.
- Bladder distention: Similar to rectal distention, a full bladder can affect the anterior boundary and overall depth.
- Junction: The degree of the rectosigmoid junction also plays a role.
Clinical Significance
Understanding the location of the pouch of Douglas is crucial in various clinical contexts, including:
- Culdocentesis: A procedure to aspirate fluid from the pouch.
- Diagnosis of pelvic conditions: Such as ectopic pregnancies, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and endometriosis.
