The cervix is the narrow lower part of the uterus, about 2.5-3 cm long, that projects into the top of the vagina. A canal runs through it, from the internal os at the uterine cavity to the external os in the vagina. Its glands produce mucus that changes through the cycle, becoming thin and stretchy around ovulation to let sperm through.
| Location | Lowest part of the uterus, with a supravaginal part above and a vaginal part projecting into the vaginal vault |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | Uterovaginal plexus; Pelvic splanchnic nerves S2-S4 |
| Blood Supply | Uterine artery (cervical branches); Vaginal artery |
| Venous drainage |
|
| Lymphatic drainage |
|
Keeps the uterus closed during pregnancy, controls sperm entry through its mucus and dilates to allow birth.
The transformation zone, where the cervix's glandular and squamous linings meet, is where nearly all cervical cancers begin, almost always driven by persistent HPV infection; screening and HPV vaccination target it. During labour the cervix softens, shortens and opens to about 10 cm. A cervix that opens too early in pregnancy (cervical insufficiency) can cause late miscarriage or preterm birth.
Cancer of the cervix, usually caused by high-risk HPV, preventable by vaccination and screening.
Precancerous changes in the cervical lining detected by screening and treated before cancer develops.
Painless early opening of the cervix in mid-pregnancy, leading to pregnancy loss or preterm birth.
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