Watch: [Understanding Your Body] Uterus

⭐English subtitles available⭐

 

 

 

The uterus is one of the reproductive organs unique to women, enabling pregnancy and childbirth.

 

The word uterus is interpreted as ‘a palace where the baby resides.’

 

The comparison of the uterus to a royal palace reflects its long-standing significance and reverence.

 

The uterus, an organ that nurtures life

 

However, many women have limited knowledge or misconceptions about the uterus.

 

Understanding the uterus accurately can help alleviate unnecessary concerns.

 

The uterus, about the size of a fist, is located deep within the pelvis.

 

Positioned between the bladder in front, the rectum behind, and the vagina below, its both ends are connected to the fallopian tubes.

 

The cross-section of the uterus, from the inside out, includes the endometrium, the myometrium, and the perimetrium.

 

Notably, the myometrium is highly elastic, expanding up to 500 times its original size during pregnancy.

 

The upper two-thirds of the uterus is the body, called the corpus, while the lower narrow part is called the cervix.

 

The lower part of the uterus, the cervix, which connects to the vagina, is particularly prone to cancer.

 

Fortunately, cervical cancer can largely be prevented through vaccination, which is recommended regardless of sexual experience.

 

Regular checkups can also help the early detection of various uterine conditions.

 

The uterus has ovaries, about 4 centimeters long and oval-shaped, attached to its left and right sides.

 

These ovaries secrete female hormones that contribute to feminine characteristics and are closely involved in menstruation and pregnancy.

 

Inside the ovaries are numerous egg sacs called follicles, where mature eggs are released in response to hormonal changes and travel to fallopian tubes.

 

Before ovulation begins, the functional layer of the endometrium gradually thickens like a sponge.

 

If pregnancy does not occur, this thickened layer is shed and expelled from the body, marking the start of menstruation.

 

Recently, excessive dieting and high levels of stress among women have led to hormonal imbalances, which in turn increase the risk of uterine disorders.

 

Uterine disorders encompass a range of conditions, including irregular menstruation, menstrual cramps, uterine fibroids, cervical cancer, and endometrial cancer.

 

In the case of benign conditions like uterine fibroids, small tumors may simply be monitored.

 

However, if the tumors grow larger or cause excessive pain, bleeding, or heavy menstruation, partial or total removal of the uterus may be necessary.

 

In such cases, concerns about sex life, aging, or obesity often arise.

 

This is a misunderstanding stemming from confusion between the roles of the uterus and the ovaries.

 

While removing the uterus may lead to psychological feeling of loss, it does not affect sexual relationships or the secretion female hormone.

 

Having no uterus means that one cannot carry a pregnancy in their own uterus, but it has no impact on sexual function, aging, or obesity.

 

Therefore, understanding this can help avoid unnecessary concerns.

 

Signs of uterine health issues include increased menstrual flow, abnormal bleeding, or more severe pain than usual.

 

Other complications, such as anemia, fatigue, headaches, and skin troubles, may also be accompanied.

 

If such symptoms occur, do not hesitate to visit a gynecologist for an accurate diagnosis and to undergo regular annual checkups.

 

Additionally, to maintain hormonal balance, it is important to avoid excessive stress and extreme dieting.

 

Regular lifestyle management, including adequate rest and improved eating habits, is essential.