Uterine horns

Uterine horns are the points where the uterus and the fallopian tubes meet. They are present in many mammals, but are most prominent in species with bicornuate uteruses, including rodents, pigs, and marsupials. In humans, the uterine horns are the regions of the uterus that are furthest from the cervix.

Etymology

The term "uterine horn" is derived from the Latin cornu uteri, which literally translates to "horn of the uterus". This is a reference to the horn-like shape of these structures in many animals.

Anatomy

The uterine horns are part of the reproductive system in female mammals. They are located at the top of the uterus, where they connect to the fallopian tubes. The size and shape of the uterine horns can vary greatly between species. In some animals, such as rodents and pigs, the uterine horns are long and extend out from the uterus, giving it a bicornuate (two-horned) appearance. In other animals, such as humans and primates, the uterine horns are much shorter and less distinct.

Function

The primary function of the uterine horns is to transport sperm from the fallopian tubes to the uterus following copulation. They also play a role in the implantation of the embryo and the development of the fetus during pregnancy. In animals with bicornuate uteruses, each uterine horn can often support the development of multiple fetuses simultaneously.

Related Terms

• Bicornuate uterus: A uterus that has two distinct "horns" extending from the top of the uterus.
• Fallopian tubes: Tubes that connect the ovaries to the uterus. Sperm travels up the fallopian tubes to fertilize an egg.
• Embryo: The early stage of development of a multicellular organism. In mammals, the embryo is the stage between fertilization and the eighth week of gestation.
• Fetus: The stage of development in mammals from the ninth week of gestation until birth.

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