Round ligament of the uterus

General Information
Latin	Ligamentum teres uteri
Greek
TA98
TA2
FMA
Details
System	Reproductive system
Artery	Artery of the round ligament
Vein
Nerve	Genitofemoral nerve
Lymphatic drainage
Precursor	Gubernaculum
Function
Identifiers
Clinical significance
Notes

The round ligament of the uterus is a key anatomical structure in the female reproductive system. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the position of the uterus within the pelvic cavity.

Anatomy

The round ligament of the uterus is a fibromuscular band that originates at the uterine horns, which are the points where the fallopian tubes enter the uterus. It extends laterally and anteriorly, passing through the inguinal canal and terminating in the labia majora.

Structure

The round ligament is composed of smooth muscle fibers, connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. It is approximately 10-12 cm in length and is covered by a fold of peritoneum.

Development

The round ligament is a remnant of the gubernaculum, a structure that guides the descent of the ovaries during embryonic development. In males, the gubernaculum becomes the scrotal ligament.

Function

The primary function of the round ligament is to maintain the anteverted position of the uterus. It helps to stabilize the uterus by preventing excessive posterior movement. During pregnancy, the round ligament stretches to accommodate the growing uterus, which can lead to a condition known as round ligament pain.

Clinical Significance

Round Ligament Pain

Round ligament pain is a common complaint during pregnancy, often described as a sharp or aching pain in the lower abdomen or groin. It is caused by the stretching and increased tension on the round ligament as the uterus enlarges.

Surgical Considerations

The round ligament is often encountered during gynecological surgery, such as hysterectomy or inguinal hernia repair. Care must be taken to avoid damaging the ligament and associated structures.

Pathology

Rarely, the round ligament can be involved in pathological conditions such as endometriosis or leiomyoma formation. These conditions can lead to chronic pain or other complications.

Associated Structures

Blood Supply

The round ligament receives its blood supply from the artery of the round ligament, a branch of the uterine artery.

Innervation

The round ligament is innervated by the genitofemoral nerve, which provides sensory fibers to the ligament.

See Also

• Uterus
• Inguinal canal
• Gubernaculum
• Pregnancy