FEMALE ORGANS OF GENERATION. 865 



The external muscular layer, which is very thin but distinct, is closely attached to the 

 peritoneum. When the uterus is somewhat enlarged after impregnation, we observe 

 oblique and transverse superficial fibres passing over the f undus and the anterior and pos- 

 terior surfaces to the sides. Here they are prolonged upon the Fallopian tubes, the round 

 ligament, and the ligament of the ovary, and also extend between the layers of the broad 

 ligament. This external layer is so thin that it cannot be very efficient in the expulsive 

 contractions of the uterus ; but, from its connections with the Fallopian tubes and the 

 ligaments, it is useful in holding the uterus in place. It does not extend entirely over 

 the sides of the uterus. Rouget, who has given a very elaborate description of the ex- 

 ternal layer in the human subject and in various classes of animals, has found it prolonged 



f 



b 



FIG. 275. Superficial muscular fibres of the anterior surface of the uterus. (LiSgeois.) 

 a, a, round ligaments ; &, &, Fallopian tubes ; c, c, e, e, transverse fibres ; c?, /, longitudinal fibres. 



into the ligaments and extending to the ovaries and Fallopian tubes. He regards the 

 uterus and its so-called appendages as lying between two thin, muscular sheets, and con- 

 siders the action of the muscular fibres as very efficient in producing an engorgement of 

 the erectile tissue of the internal organs, by constriction of the veins. Erection, accord- 

 ing to this observer, occurs at the period of menstruation, determines the application of 

 the fimbriated extremity of the Fallopian tubes to the surface of the ovary, and assists 

 in the expulsion of the ovum. These points will be more fully considered under the head 

 of ovulation. 



The middle muscular layer is the one most efficient in the parturient contractions of 

 the uterus. It is composed of a thick and complicated net-work of fasciculi interlacing 

 with each other in every direction. 



The inner muscular layer is arranged in the form of broad rings, which surround the 

 Fallopian tubes, become larger as they extend over the body of the uterus, and meet at 

 the centre of the organ near the neck. 



The mucous membrane of the uterus is of a pale, reddish color ; and that portion 

 lining the body is smooth, and so closely attached to the subjacent structures, that it 

 cannot be separated to any great extent by dissection. There is, however, no proper 

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