Endometrium
Updated:The endometrium is the inner lining of the uterus, a crucial part of the female reproductive system. This remarkable tissue layer changes throughout the menstrual cycle in response to hormonal fluctuations. It thickens and becomes enriched with blood vessels in preparation for a potential pregnancy, providing a nurturing environment for a fertilized egg to implant.
If pregnancy doesn't occur, the endometrium sheds during menstruation, resulting in the monthly period. This cyclical process of growth and shedding is essential for reproductive health and fertility.
Additional Information
The endometrium consists of two layers: the functional layer, which is shed during menstruation, and the basal layer, which remains intact and regenerates the functional layer after each period. The thickness and characteristics of the endometrium can be important indicators of reproductive health and are often examined during fertility assessments.
Conditions affecting the endometrium, such as endometriosis (where endometrial-like tissue grows outside the uterus) or endometrial cancer, can have significant impacts on reproductive health and overall well-being.
Examples
During ovulation, the endometrium thickens to about 11 mm, creating an ideal environment for embryo implantation.
In some fertility treatments, doctors may evaluate the endometrial thickness to determine the optimal timing for embryo transfer.