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Uterus

Key Stage 3

Meaning

The uterus is an organ in the female reproductive system where the offspring develops before birth.

ReproductiveSystemUterus.png
A diagram showing the Uterus in the Female Reproductive System.

About the Human Uterus

The lining of the uterus builds up every month to prepare for pregnancy. However, when the female does not become pregnant the lining breaks down and exist through the vagina. This is called a period but is known in biology as 'Menstruation'.
If the female does become pregnant the lining becomes the amnion, placenta and umbilical cord to protect and feed the foetus.

References

AQA

Uterus, page 208-9, GCSE Biology; Student Book, Collins, AQA
Uterus, pages 168-171, 173, GCSE Biology; Third Edition, Oxford University Press, AQA