Understanding Menopause
Chapter One
Biological changes
during the menopause
This chapter focuses on the biological changes
that occur prior to, during and after the
menopause. To help understand these changes
the structure of the female reproductive organs
and the process of normal menstruation is firstly
outlined.
The female reproductive organs
The female reproductive system comprises the uterus (or womb), two ovaries
connected to the uterus by fallopian tubes, and the vagina. Figure 1.1 shows the
position of these organs.
The uterus is a muscular organ shaped like a pear. It is about 7 1/2 cm long
and 5 cm wide, but is able to stretch during pregnancy as the baby grows. The
lining of the uterus, called the endometrium, contains numerous blood vessels,
which provide nourishment for the growing baby. When a woman is not pregnant,
menstruation occurs as the endometrium is shed. The cervix is the lower part of
the uterus and connects to the vagina.
The two tubes leaving the uterus are called the fallopian tubes, each being
about 10 cm long. These tubes provide a connection between the ovaries and the
uterus so that the egg (ovum) can be transported to the uterus for implantation.
The ovaries a ... read full excerpt from Understanding Menopause ebook
