Welcome! Your body is incredible and is going through amazing changes as you grow up. The female reproductive system is at the center of a lot of these changes, from getting your first period to understanding how your body works. We are here to help you explore and understand all of it—the big questions and the small ones—in a way that feels clear, honest, and empowering. Think of this as your guide to feeling confident and informed about your own health.
The uterus, or womb, is a pear-shaped, hollow, muscular organ located in the female pelvis between the bladder and rectum. Its primary functions are related to reproduction. It is where a fertilized egg implants and where a fetus develops during pregnancy. The inner lining of the uterus, called the endometrium, also sheds each month if pregnancy doesn't occur, which is what causes a menstrual period.
The uterus is located in the female pelvis, a region in the lower part of the abdomen. Specifically, it is situated between the bladder (in front) and the rectum (behind). The uterus is held in place by several ligaments and is supported by the pelvic floor muscles. Its exact position can slightly change depending on whether the bladder or rectum are full.
The uterus has two primary functions that are central to the female reproductive system: Menstruation: Each month, the inner lining of the uterus, called the endometrium, thickens in preparation for a potential pregnancy. If a fertilized egg doesn't implant, this lining is shed and exits the body, which is known as a menstrual period. Pregnancy: If a fertilized egg does implant in the uterine lining, the uterus becomes the place where the embryo and later the fetus will develop and grow. This muscular organ is able to expand dramatically to accommodate the growing baby and then contracts powerfully during labor to push the baby out.
Possible health issues affecting the uterus include:
These conditions can cause a range of symptoms, such as painful or heavy periods, pelvic pain, and infertility. Uterine Cancer is also a possibility, though some conditions are much more common.
