The uterus is located in the pelvis between the bladder and the rectum.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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General Location: The uterus sits centrally within the pelvic cavity, a space within the bony pelvis.
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Relationship to Other Organs:
- Anteriorly (in front): The bladder sits in front of the uterus. When the bladder is full, it can exert pressure on the uterus.
- Posteriorly (behind): The rectum is located behind the uterus.
- Inferiorly (below): The pelvic floor muscles provide support from below.
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Support Structures: Several factors help maintain the uterus's position:
- Pelvic Floor Muscles: These muscles form a sling that supports the pelvic organs, including the uterus.
- Perineal Body: A mass of connective tissue and muscle located between the vagina and the anus. It contributes to pelvic floor support.
- Ligaments: Various ligaments, such as the broad ligament, round ligament, uterosacral ligaments, and cardinal ligaments, attach the uterus to the pelvic walls and surrounding structures, helping to keep it in place. These ligaments connect to the pelvis, lower back, and hips.
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Normal Position: The uterus is typically anteverted (tilted forward) and anteflexed (bent forward at the junction of the cervix and the body of the uterus). However, variations in uterine position are common and often normal, unless they are associated with symptoms.
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Variations: While anteversion and anteflexion are typical, the uterus can also be retroverted (tilted backward) or retroflexed (bent backward). These variations are often normal and don't require treatment unless they cause symptoms like pain or difficulty conceiving.
