Oviduct
Oviduct
The Oviduct, also known as the Fallopian tube, is a part of the female reproductive system in mammals, including humans. It is the pathway through which an ovum or egg travels from the ovary to the uterus.
Structure[edit | edit source]
The oviduct is a narrow, tube-like structure that extends from the uterus to the vicinity of the ovary, but does not directly connect with it. It is divided into four main sections: the infundibulum, the ampulla, the isthmus, and the uterine part.
Infundibulum[edit | edit source]
The infundibulum is the funnel-shaped end of the oviduct, located near the ovary. It has finger-like projections called fimbriae that help to catch and guide the ovum into the oviduct.
Ampulla[edit | edit source]
The ampulla is the longest section of the oviduct and is where fertilization usually occurs if a sperm is present when the ovum is released.
Isthmus[edit | edit source]
The isthmus is a narrower section of the oviduct that connects the ampulla to the uterine part.
Uterine part[edit | edit source]
The uterine part (also known as the intramural part) is the section of the oviduct that is embedded within the wall of the uterus.
Function[edit | edit source]
The primary function of the oviduct is to transport the ovum from the ovary to the uterus. The cilia and muscle contractions within the oviduct facilitate this movement. If a sperm fertilizes the ovum in the oviduct, the fertilized egg then travels to the uterus where it implants into the uterine wall and begins to develop into a fetus.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
Problems with the oviduct can lead to infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and pelvic inflammatory disease. Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure to prevent pregnancy by blocking the oviducts.
See also[edit | edit source]
Oviduct Resources | ||
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