Uterine Tubes

fallopian tubes .jpg

The uterine tubes are muscular tubes that extend from the uterus to the ovaries. They function to:

  1. Convey fertilized and unfertilized oocytes to the uterine cavity by ciliary action and muscular contractions.

  2. They also transport sperm in the opposite direction for fertilization to take place.

The uterine tubes are supported by the mesosalpinx, which is the region of the broad ligament.

The uterine tube has four divisions:

  1. Fimbriae

    • This region of the uterine tubes has finger-like projections that transport the ovum from the surface of the ovary.

  2. Infundibulum

    • This region of the uterine tubes is funnel shaped, and opens into the peritoneal cavity.

  3. Ampulla

    • This region of the uterine tubes is the longest and widest part of the uterine tube. It is also the site of fertilization.

  4. Isthmus

    • This is the narrow section of the uterine tubes that connects the ampulla to the uterine cavity.