Cervical mucus plug
Cervical Mucus Plug
The Cervical Mucus Plug, also known as the Cervical Plug or Mucus Plug, is a naturally occurring barrier in the female reproductive system.
Pronunciation
Cervical: /ˈsɜːrvɪkəl/ Mucus: /ˈmjuːkəs/ Plug: /plʌɡ/
Etymology
The term "Cervical" is derived from the Latin word "cervix" which means "neck". "Mucus" is a Latin word for "slime", and "Plug" is from the Old English "pluggian", meaning "to stop up".
Definition
The Cervical Mucus Plug is a protective barrier that forms in the cervix during early pregnancy. It is composed of thick, gelatinous mucus that seals the cervical canal and prevents bacteria and other pathogens from entering the uterus.
Function
The primary function of the Cervical Mucus Plug is to protect the developing fetus from potential infection by acting as a barrier between the uterus and the external environment. It also helps maintain the sterile environment of the uterus during pregnancy.
Related Terms
- Cervix: The lower, narrow end of the uterus that connects the uterus to the vagina.
- Mucus: A slippery secretion produced by, and covering, mucous membranes.
- Fetus: An unborn offspring, from the embryo stage (the end of the eighth week after conception, when the major structures have formed) until birth.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cervical mucus plug
- Wikipedia's article - Cervical mucus plug
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