Structure of the uterine mucosa
The structure of the uterine lining varies depending on the phase of the cycle. In general, a distinction can be made between two different layers of the mucous membrane. For example, the so-called basal layer lies on top of the uterine musculature.
During the cycle, this layer always remains on the muscles and does not detach from them during the period. This means that even during menstruation, a layer of mucous membrane always remains on the uterus. The functional layer, which is subject to changes during the cycle, must be distinguished from this.
In the secretion phase, this layer can be further divided into a so-called “compact” and a “sponge-like” layer. The mucosa consists of different cell types, which take over different functions. The basic structure of the mucosa is formed by so-called epithelial cells. These represent the basic structure of the uterine mucosa.In addition there are glandular cells which multiply especially in the growth and secretion phase and produce a liquid secretion.
What happens during my period?
The period, also called menstruation or period, is the regular monthly rejection of part of the lining of the uterus. Only the functional layer of the mucous membrane is rejected, while the basal layer remains on the muscles of the uterus. The period begins with the mature development of the woman in puberty, whereby the first period is also called menarche.
With the menopause the last period takes place. In the meantime, the period represents the beginning of the menstrual cycle. Besides the mucous membrane of the uterus, the period also contains blood and fluids produced by the glandular cells. The rejection of the mucous membrane can be accompanied by pain, but this is usually not a cause for concern. Normally, the volume of menstrual blood is limited to a maximum of 200ml, and the duration of the period is usually between four and six days.
How does the lining of the uterus change during pregnancy?
The uterine lining plays an important role during pregnancy. After fertilization of the egg, it nests in the mucous membrane. In the days before, the growth and secretion phase of the uterine lining took place, which is why it is in an ideal position for the egg.
Due to certain pregnancy hormones, the mucous membrane is transformed into the so-called Decidua graviditatis after the implantation of the egg. In order to supply the egg cell with sufficient nutrients, there are many blood vessels and glands in the layers of the mucous membrane. If the egg is successfully fertilized, it grows in the mucosa, now called the decidua. Together with the layers of the egg cell, the envelope that has now formed around the egg cell is also called the egg cavity. After the birth of the baby, the body hormonally rejects the lining of the uterus, which served the child as part of the egg cavity, and the regular menstrual cycle begins again.
