554 



EGG AND FEMALE ORGANS OF GENERATION. 



seen to be nearly triangular in 'shape, its two superior angles run- 

 ning out on each side to join the lower extremities of the Fallopian 

 tubes. This portion evidently consists of the cornua, which have 

 been consolidated with the body of the uterus, and enveloped in 

 its thickened layer of muscular fibres. 



Fig. 183. 



GENERATIVE OROAXS OF HITMAN FEMALE. n, a. Ovaries. I, b. Fallopian tubes, 

 c. B-jdy of uterus, d. Cervix, e. Vagiua. 



The cavity of the body of the uterus terminates below by a con- 

 stricted portion termed the os internum, by which it is separated 

 from the cavity of the cervix. These two cavities are not only 

 different from each other in shape, but differ also in the structure 

 of their mucous membrane and the functions which it is destined 

 to perform. 



The mucous membrane of the body of the uterus in its usual 

 condition is smooth and rosy in color, and closely adherent to the 

 subjacent muscular tissue. It consists of minute tubular follicles 

 somewhat similar to those of the gastric mucous membrane, ranged 

 side by side, and opening by distinct orifices upon its free surface. 

 The secretion of these follicles is destined for the nutrition of the 

 embryo during the earlier periods of its formation. 



The internal surface of the neck of the uterus, on the other hand, 

 is raised in prominent ridges which are arranged usually in two 

 lateral sets, diverging from a central longitudinal ridge ; presenting 

 the appearance known as the " arbor vitas uterina." The follicles 

 of this part of the uterine mucous membrane are different in struc- 

 ture from those of the foregoing. They are of a globular or sac- 



