Ligaments of Reproductive Tract

mesosalpinx

the upper portion of the broad ligament that encloses the fallopian tubes

mesovarium

the posterior portion of the broad ligament that is drawn out to enclose and hold the ovary in place

ovarian ligament

anchors ovary medially (inferiorly) to uterus - fibrous band of tissue that lies within the mesovarium (broad ligament)

pubocervical ligaments (x2)

attach the cervix to the posterior surface of the pubic symphysis - fibrous bands

uterosacral ligaments

attach the cervix to the sacrum (ie: poserior attachment) - fibrous bands that hold the uterus in place

Infundibulopelvic ligament (suspensory ligament of the ovary)

extends from the ovary to the lateral abdominal wall - contains the ovarian arteries, veins, ovarian nerve plexus, and lymphatic vessels)

mesometrium

largest part of the broad ligament - covers the external iliac vessels - encloses part of the round ligament of the uterus

round ligament of uterus

originates at the uterine horns (point at which fallopian tube enters the uterus) and attaches to the labia majora, passing through the inguinal canal - remnant of the gubernaculum

Broad ligament

sheet of peritoneum, associated with uterus and ovaries - extends from lateral pelvic wall - components: mesometrium, mesovarium, mesosalpinx - contains the ovarian ligament, round ligament of the uterus, suspensory ligament of the ovary (infundibulopelvic ligament)

cardinal ligaments (transverse cervical)

situated on the inferior border of the broad ligament and contain the uterine artery and uterine veins - attach the cervix to the ischial spines - peritoneal