Ligament
Round ligament of the uterus
A uterine cord that follows the inguinal canal
High-yield
The round ligament carries a small lymphatic route from the uterine fundus toward superficial inguinal nodes. It also helps hold the uterus forward, alongside the more substantial pelvic support system.
Overview
From each uterine horn, a fibromuscular cord runs forward within the broad ligament, enters the deep inguinal ring and emerges into the labium majus. This is the lower derivative of the fetal gubernaculum; the ovarian ligament represents its upper portion. Its course connects pelvic reproductive anatomy with the groin.
Reference facts
- Attachments
- It begins just below and anterior to the uterotubal junction, traverses the broad ligament and both inguinal rings, then blends into connective tissue of the labium majus.
- Function
- Its fibromuscular tissue provides positional support favoring an anteverted uterus; apical support also depends on pelvic connective tissue and muscles.
- Clinical point
- The inguinal segment explains canal-of-Nuck lesions and occasional round-ligament endometriosis. The accompanying lymphatics link the uterine fundus with the groin.
Clinical correlation
Stretch of the round ligament is associated with brief movement-related discomfort during pregnancy. A persistent canal of Nuck beside its inguinal course can contain a hydrocele or admit an indirect hernia. Endometriosis occasionally involves the ligament and may produce a groin lesion.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the round ligament of the uterus attach?
It begins just below and anterior to the uterotubal junction, traverses the broad ligament and both inguinal rings, then blends into connective tissue of the labium majus.
What does the round ligament of the uterus do?
Its fibromuscular tissue provides positional support favoring an anteverted uterus; apical support also depends on pelvic connective tissue and muscles.
Why does the round ligament of the uterus matter clinically?
The inguinal segment explains canal-of-Nuck lesions and occasional round-ligament endometriosis. The accompanying lymphatics link the uterine fundus with the groin.