What is the Difference Between Cervix and Uterus?

The cervix and uterus are both part of a woman's reproductive system, but they have distinct functions and structures.

Cervix:

• The cervix is the lower, narrow part of the uterus, connecting the main body of the uterus to the vagina.
• It is a small canal that allows fluids to leave and enter the uterus.
• The cervix consists of the endocervical canal, which transports sperm into the uterine cavity, allows the escape of blood from the uterus during menstruation, and supplies mucus.
• During childbirth, the cervix widens (dilates) to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal.

Uterus:

• The uterus, also called the womb, is a hollow, pear-shaped organ located between the bladder and the rectum in a woman's lower abdomen.
• It plays a critical role in menstruation, fertility, and pregnancy.
• The uterus consists of three layers and is responsible for the menstrual cycle, where the lining of the uterus (called the endometrial lining) gets thicker and rich with blood as the woman nears ovulation.

In summary, the cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects it to the vagina and plays a role in menstruation, fertility, and childbirth, while the uterus is a hollow organ that houses and nourishes a developing fetus during pregnancy and sheds its lining during menstruation.

Comparative Table: Cervix vs Uterus

The cervix and uterus are two distinct parts of the female reproductive system. Here is a table highlighting the differences between them:

The cervix is the lower portion of the uterus and plays a crucial role in allowing communication between the body of the uterus and the vagina. In contrast, the uterus is a larger organ that holds and nurtures a developing fetus during pregnancy.