The cervix and cervical canal

The female reproductive system - a complex set, the bodies which are in close relationship to each other. Their main task is to pregnancy and childbirth. One of the most important roles in pregnancy and childbirth plays the cervix and its canal. The structure, cervical function and cervical determine the course and outcome of pregnancy. The surface of the cervix is ​​the object of attention of doctors, as it is considered the most frequent site of pathology.

anatomical features

Neck - a lower uterine department which is the link between the cavity and the vagina. It is located inside the cervical canal, which is the only way the surrounding communication environment and internal reproductive organs.

Since it may occur through the cervical tissue infection, it there is a special security mechanism. There are two os: outside - opening in the vaginal cavity, it is available for medical examination as well as internal - located at the junction with the cavity of the uterus. These structures are especially needed not only to protect the bodies from viruses and pathogenic bacteria, but also for the normal gestation pregnancy.

Inside the cervical canal epithelial cells lining glandular type capable of producing mucus. In appearance cervical mind of its color and surface, as well as the consistency of mucus a doctor may suggest the presence of any pathology.

Inspection of the cervix It is also important during pregnancy and during labor.

functions

The main functions of the cervix include:

• barrier - outer mouth prevents viruses, germs and bacteria into the uterine cavity and restricts advancement of sperm to the egg (except ovulation period);
• childbearing - the cervix is ​​capable of strong tension during the passage of the baby through the birth canal;
• fertilization - the mucus produced by the cervix cells in the middle of the menstrual cycle creates a favorable environment for the penetration of sperm into the uterus and further conception.

All the above features are essential for the woman's body, especially during childbearing.

possible pathology

cervical pathology - these are some of the most common cases in gynecological practice. The disease can develop for many reasons, the main are:

• congenital disorders;
• the imbalance of the hormonal system;
• infection;
• inflammatory processes;
• damage during surgery.

Common symptoms of cervical disease is pain, atypical or even spotting and discomfort during sexual intercourse.

structural abnormalities

The first group cervical diseases constitute anomalies associated with changes in structure. They can be either congenital or acquired. In the first case pathology often spreads to other parts of female genital system.

Structural anomalies are associated primarily with changes in terrain or shape of the cervical canal. Major diseases include the following diseases.

• Cervical channel has a funnel shape, developed as a result of improper location of the muscle fibers. It may occur during labor, which entails difficulties in subsequent pregnancies. Treatment of this pathology does not provide.
• Atresia of cervical canal - is a complete obstruction or severe narrowing channel. It can be a congenital anomaly or pathologies that developed during abortions or formation of cancer tumors. Dangerous accumulation of menstrual blood in the uterus and the inability to conceive a child.
• The development of the two channels - a congenital anomaly, representing a doubling of the genitals. In this case, there is the possibility of occurrence of normal pregnancy and childbirth, so surgery is a last resort.

cases of cervical dilatation is sometimes observed, which entails a risk during pregnancy. This is due to an excess of male hormones in the body and cervix loss of containment function of the fetus. In most prescribed medications appropriate to adjust or set the hormonal gynecological ring. Often, the neck structure contains an excessive amount of connective tissue in the body such situations can not withstand the mechanical pressure exerted by the fetus. Cervical canal begins to expand, and the cervix - shortened.

inflammatory processes

Basic disease of the cervical canal is inflammatory endocervite. The real cause is the penetration of pathogens into the cervix. Symptoms include pus, pain at rest and during intercourse, failures of the menstrual cycle, and malaise, and fever.

As treatment prescribed reception antibiotic drugs and means aimed at eliminating disease symptoms.

neoplasms

Neoplastic cervical neoplasms and cervical canal can be both benign and malignant. For benign include:

• polyps;
• fibroids;
• hemangiomas;
• fibroids;
• leiomyoma.

These diseases may occur as a completely asymptomatic, and bring a lot of discomfort voiding time, accompanied by bleeding and the development of obstruction of the lower intestine. Treatment means by a surgical intervention.

For malignant tumors, primarily they include cyst and adenocarcinoma. Cyst formation is a small, fluid-filled and prone to strong widening. Due to the limited diameter of the cervical canal, cyst growth can cause its rupture and further infection of tissues.

Adenocarcinoma - a cancerous lesions of the cervical canal. Manifestations of this disease cervix at late stages are sharp weight loss, severe pain in the lower abdomen, blood separation and change of blood formula.

Regular visits to the gynecologist - is one of the best ways to prevent the development of cervical abnormalities and cervical canal.

Gynecological examination and diagnosis of diseases

The first stage of pathology diagnostics - is a standard gynecological exam. The doctor examines the cervix surface, structure, color, identify any deviations from the norm. Since it is impossible to visually inspect the cervical canal, then take a swab for further microscopic examination. With this method it is possible to identify the causative agents of inflammation, and infectious diseases, as well as any changes in the cells prior to tumor development.

In addition, the diagnostic ultrasound is used for the study of cervical position relative to other organs and identify any structural changes. Another method is a hysteroscopy. Using a special device method allows visualization inside the uterus, including cervical canal, as well as a biomaterial selected for further cytological study.

The cervix and cervical canal, being one of the most important structures of the female body, require careful attention to itself. It is important to annually visit the gynecologist and monitor any changes occurring in the body.