A histological study of uterus in reproductive and postmenopausal women

Background and aims: The "Uterus" or "Womb" is a part of the female reproductive tract that receives the fertilized ovum from the oviduct, provides the bed for implantation and establishes the vascular connections necessary for sustenance of the embryo throughout its development. Due to increasing rate of infertility, the reproductive organs are gaining importance. The aim of the study is to ascertain that the research work could be utilized for investigation and guidance for management of infertility cases. The knowledge of normal histological architecture of the uterus will be of help to isolate any pathological changes. Materials and methods: Ten samples each from reproductive and postmenopausal women were collected from fresh unembalmed human cadavers. The slides were prepared using the standard laboratory procedure. Stress was given on the structure of endometrium, cervical mucosa and squamocolumnar junction. Endometrial and cervical mucosal thickness were measured in both groups. Results: Significant differences of histological architecture were noted between the two groups. The average endometrial thickness as measured by micrometer scale was 4.29 mm and 1.64 mm in reproductive and post-menopausal women respectively. The average cervical mucosal thickness was 2.76 mm and 1.55 mm in reproductive and postmenopausal women respectively. Conclusion: Knowledge of the normal histological structure of the uterus is of prime importance to have the basic knowledge of various pathological entities.