Female Pelvic Spaces

When excessive, where may free fluid be located?

Adnexa & lower quadrants of the abdomen. This may delineate the borders of pelvic organs.

What is the vesicouterine pouch also known as?

Anterior cul de sac

Vesicouterine pouch

Fluid accumulation anterior to the uterus and posterior to the urinary bladder.

Space of Retzius

Fluid accumulation between the anterior wall of the urinary bladder & symphysis pubis. This space normally contains subcutaneous fat.

Rectouterine pouch

Fluid accumulation located between the rectum and uterus.

When does the greatest quantity of free fluid in the cul de sac normally occurs?

Immediately following ovulation when the mature follicle ruptures.

Can sonography confirm that fluid is related to ovulation?

No. Hemorrhage or infection within the fluid may be related to a ruptured cyst, ascites, ectopic pregnancy....

What is the rectouterine pouch also known as?

Posterior cul de sac Pouch of Douglas

Where is it normal to observe a small accumulation of free fluid throughout the menstrual cycle?

Rectouterine pouch

What is the space of Retzius also known as?

Retropubic space (an area that contains extra peritoneal fat)