Uterine gland

Uterine gland

The Uterine gland, also known as endometrial gland, is a tubular structure found in the endometrium of the uterus. The glands are lined by columnar epithelium and are responsible for the production of uterine milk to nourish the developing embryo in the early stages of pregnancy.

Etymology

The term "uterine gland" is derived from the Latin words "uterus" meaning womb and "glandula" meaning small gland.

Structure

Uterine glands are simple or branched tubular glands that originate from the stromal cells of the endometrium. They are lined by a single layer of columnar epithelium. The glands extend from the basal layer of the endometrium into the functional layer, and their secretions are released into the uterine cavity.

Function

The primary function of the uterine glands is to produce and secrete substances essential for the nourishment and survival of the embryo in the early stages of pregnancy. This secretion, known as uterine milk, contains a variety of nutrients including glycogen, lipids, and proteins.

During the menstrual cycle, the activity of the uterine glands changes. In the proliferative phase, the glands are straight and narrow, while in the secretory phase, they become coiled and filled with glycogen.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in the structure or function of the uterine glands can lead to a variety of medical conditions. For example, adenomyosis is a condition where the uterine glands grow into the muscular wall of the uterus. Endometrial hyperplasia is a condition characterized by an excessive growth of the endometrium, including the uterine glands.

See also

• Endometrium
• Uterus
• Menstrual cycle
• Adenomyosis
• Endometrial hyperplasia

References

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