Plexus uterovaginalis

Plexus uterovaginalis

The plexus uterovaginalis is a network of nerves located in the female reproductive system. It is primarily associated with the uterus and vagina, and plays a crucial role in the transmission of sensory and motor signals.

Anatomy

The plexus uterovaginalis is formed by the branching of the uterine and vaginal nerves. These nerves originate from the hypogastric plexus, which is a complex network of nerves located in the pelvic region. The hypogastric plexus receives input from both the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system.

The uterine nerves innervate the uterus, while the vaginal nerves innervate the vagina. As they branch out, they form a dense network of nerve fibers that intertwine with the blood vessels and connective tissues of the reproductive organs.

Function

The plexus uterovaginalis serves several important functions in the female reproductive system. It is responsible for transmitting sensory information, such as pain and touch, from the uterus and vagina to the central nervous system. This allows women to perceive sensations related to menstruation, sexual activity, and childbirth.

Additionally, the plexus uterovaginalis plays a role in regulating the smooth muscle contractions of the uterus and vagina. These contractions are essential for various reproductive processes, including menstruation, sexual arousal, and childbirth. The nerves of the plexus uterovaginalis coordinate these contractions by transmitting motor signals from the central nervous system to the muscles.

Clinical Significance

Disorders or injuries affecting the plexus uterovaginalis can lead to various symptoms and complications. For example, damage to the nerves may result in altered sensation or pain in the uterus and vagina. This can manifest as chronic pelvic pain, dyspareunia (painful intercourse), or abnormal menstrual cramps.

Furthermore, dysfunction of the plexus uterovaginalis can disrupt the normal coordination of uterine and vaginal contractions. This can lead to conditions such as uterine inertia, where the uterus fails to contract effectively during labor, or vaginismus, a condition characterized by involuntary spasms of the vaginal muscles.