Cervix: Anatomy, Function, and Health
The cervix is a vital organ of the female reproductive system. It is the lower part of the uterus (womb) that connects to the vagina. It has a cylindrical or conical shape and measures about 2.5 to 3.5 centimetres (1 to 1.3 inches) in length. The cervix has several functions, such as allowing menstrual blood, sperm, and a baby to pass through it. It also protects the uterus from infections and helps prevent cervical cancer by producing mucus and undergoing regular screening.
Anatomy of the Cervix
The cervix has two main parts: the ectocervix and the endocervix. The ectocervix is the outer part that can be seen from inside the vagina during a gynaecological exam. It has a small opening called the external os, which leads to the endocervix. The endocervix is the inner part that forms a canal between the ectocervix and the uterus. It has another opening called the internal os, which connects to the uterine cavity.
Function of the Cervix
The cervix undergoes changes throughout the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause. During ovulation, the cervix produces clear and slippery mucus that helps sperm travel to the uterus and fertilise an egg. During menstruation, the cervix opens slightly to allow blood to flow out of the uterus. During pregnancy, the cervix secretes a thick mucus plug that seals the entrance to the uterus and protects the developing baby from infections. During labour, the cervix softens, thins, and dilates to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal. During menopause, the cervix produces less mucus and becomes smaller and stiffer due to hormonal changes.
Health of the Cervix
The cervix is also susceptible to infections and diseases, such as human papillomavirus (HPV), cervical dysplasia, and cervical cancer. HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause abnormal cell changes on the cervix, which may lead to cancer if left untreated.
Cervical dysplasia is a precancerous condition that involves abnormal cell growth on the cervix. Cervical cancer is a malignant tumour that originates from the cells of the cervix. It is one of the most common and deadly cancers among women worldwide.
The best way to prevent and treat cervical infections and diseases is to have regular cervical screening tests. These tests can detect HPV and abnormal cell changes on the cervix before they become cancerous. There are different types of cervical screening tests, such as Pap smear, HPV test, and co-test.
A Pap smear is a test that collects cells from the cervix and examines them under a microscope for signs of dysplasia or cancer. An HPV test is a test that detects the presence of high-risk HPV types that can cause cervical cancer. A co-test is a combination of both a Pap smear and an HPV test. These tests are recommended for women aged 25 to 65 years, every three to five years, depending on the type of test and the risk factors.
Cervical screening tests are not diagnostic, meaning they cannot confirm whether a person has cervical cancer or not. If a screening test result is abnormal, further tests and treatments may be needed. These may include colposcopy, biopsy, and excision or ablation.
A colposcopy is a procedure that uses a magnifying device to examine the cervix more closely. A biopsy is a procedure that removes a small sample of tissue from the cervix for further analysis. An excision or ablation is a procedure that removes or destroys the abnormal cells from the cervix.
Conclusion
The cervix is an important organ that plays a key role in reproduction, menstruation, and cervical health. It is essential to take care of the cervix by having regular screening tests, avoiding risky sexual behaviours, and getting vaccinated for HPV. By doing so, one can prevent cervical infections and diseases, and improve the quality of life.
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Sources
1: Cervix: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
2: Cervix: Anatomy, Parts, Diagram, Images, Function, Structure
3: The Cervix: Functions, Anatomy, and Reproductive Health