28-25
The Uterus Serves Four Functions
nSite for implantation.
npre-embryo implants into
the inner uterine wall and becomes
connected to the uterine lining
nSupports, protects, and
nourishes the developing embryo/fetus
nforms a vascular
connection with the mother’s uterine wall that later develops into the placenta
nEjects the fetus at
birth after maternal oxytocin levels
increase to initiate the uterine contractions of
labor.
nSite for menstruation.
nif an oocyte is not
fertilized or after a baby is expelled, the muscular wall of the uterus contracts and sheds its
inner lining as menstruation