Uterine vein
Vein of the uterus
- 1 min read
- 4 chapters
Related on Lably
Structure
The uterine vein is found in the cardinal ligament of the uterus. It travels through the broad ligament of the uterus to the lateral abdominal wall. It drains into the internal iliac vein.
The uterine vein forms a venous plexus around the cervix. It follows a similar course to the uterine artery. Lymphatic vessels are associated with it. It also anastomoses with the ovarian vein. It may anastomose with the vaginal venous plexus.
Sign in to keep reading
3 more chapters are free with a Lably account.
Function
The uterine vein helps to drain blood from the uterus. This is also important for the removal of waste from blood in the placenta during pregnancy.
Clinical significance
Placenta measurement
Measurements of the partial pressure of O2 in the uterine vein can be used as an analogue of the partial pressure of O2 in the placenta. This may be measured during Caesarian section.
Embolism
Very rarely, amniotic fluid may enter a uterine vein during childbirth. This is a rare cause of an embolism.
Other animals
The uterine vein may be very different in non-human animals. In rats, it drains into the common iliac vein.