Definition: The uterus is the hollow organ in the female reproductive system that holds a fetus during pregnancy. During childbirth muscular contractions in the uterus help to push the baby out of the body.
The uterus is lined with a membrane called the endometrium. When a woman does not become pregnant, the lining is shed, resulting in a woman's period (menstruation). When a woman is pregnant, the lining thickens and helps support the needs of the egg.
A
hysterectomy is a surgery to remove the uterus.
Pronunciation: YOU-ter-us
Also Known As: womb,
Examples: During pregnancy the uterus expands to many times its original size.
