Back
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

womb

Definition

The womb, also known as the uterus, is a muscular organ in the female reproductive system. It is located in the pelvis, between the bladder and the rectum. The womb is responsible for holding and nurturing a foetus during pregnancy.

The womb is made up of three layers:

  • The endometrium is the inner layer of the womb. It is made up of tissue that is rich in blood vessels and nutrients. The endometrium thickens during the menstrual cycle in preparation for pregnancy. If a pregnancy does not occur, the endometrium sheds and is expelled from the body during menstruation.
  • The myometrium is the middle layer of the womb. It is made up of smooth muscle tissue. The myometrium contracts during childbirth to help push the baby out of the womb.
  • The perimetrium is the outer layer of the womb. It is made up of connective tissue. The perimetrium helps to protect the womb and keep it in place.
  • The womb is connected to the ovaries by fallopian tubes. The fallopian tubes carry eggs from the ovaries to the womb. If an egg is fertilized by a sperm, it will implant in the lining of the womb and start to grow into a baby.

How can the word be used?

The womb is a symbol of motherhood.

womb

Different forms of the word

Noun: the organ in a woman's body where a fetus develops.

Verb: to carry or shelter something.

Etymology

The word "womb" comes from the Old English word "womb", which also means "the organ in a woman's body where a fetus develops".

The first recorded use of the word "womb" in English was in the 8th century.

Question

What happens in the womb?

AQA Science Exam Question and Answer

Question:

Describe the role of the womb (uterus) in the human reproductive system. Explain how the womb supports embryo development during pregnancy and the processes involved in labour and childbirth.

Answer:

The womb, also known as the uterus, is a vital organ in the human reproductive system, playing a central role in pregnancy and childbirth. Its primary function is to provide a nurturing environment for the developing embryo and foetus during pregnancy.

During pregnancy, the lining of the uterus thickens in response to hormonal changes, creating a suitable environment for embryo implantation. Once an egg is fertilised by a sperm, the resulting zygote undergoes division and forms a blastocyst. This blastocyst attaches to the uterine lining, and the womb supplies nutrients and oxygen to support its growth and development.

As the embryo develops into a foetus, the womb expands to accommodate the growing baby. The muscular walls of the uterus contract during labour, aided by the hormone oxytocin. These contractions help propel the baby through the birth canal, eventually leading to childbirth.

The cervix, the lower part of the uterus, dilates during labour to allow the baby's passage. As labour progresses, contractions become stronger and more frequent until the cervix is fully dilated. At this point, the baby is ready to be born.

During childbirth, the womb continues to contract, assisting in pushing the baby out. After delivery, the womb contracts further to expel the placenta, completing the birthing process.