Myometrium

Myometrium is the middle layer of the uterine wall, consisting mainly of uterine smooth muscle cells (also called uterine myocytes), but also of supporting stromal and vascular tissue. Its main function is to induce uterine contractions.

Structure

The myometrium is located between the endometrium (the inner layer of the uterine wall), and the serosa or perimetrium (the outer uterine layer). The innermost layer of myometrium is known as the junctional zone, which becomes thickened in adenomyosis.

Function

The myometrium stretches (hypertrophy) during pregnancy and contracts rhythmically during the process of labor to expel the fetus. After delivery, the myometrium contracts to expel the placenta and reduce blood loss; this is known as uterine atony.

Clinical significance

The myometrium is the muscular target of several conditions including uterine fibroids and adenomyosis. It is also the tissue layer from which leiomyosarcoma develops, which is a form of cancer.

See also

• Endometrium
• Perimetrium
• Uterine fibroids
• Adenomyosis
• Leiomyosarcoma

Myometrium Resources
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